Pune activists propagate compulsory thalassaemia trait testing

Wednesday, May 8, is celebrated as World Thalassaemia Day. Thalassaemia is a blood related genetic disorder, which includes lack of genes responsible for production of haemoglobin

In an attempt to avoid birth of children affected with thalassaemia, the thalassaemia society of India, Pune chapter, has proposed mandatory trait test for those who wish to get married, to the state health department.

The severity of the disease depends on the mutations involved in the genes (PICTURE FOR REPRESENTATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY)

Giving details, Dr Nita Munshi, president of thalassaemia society of India, Pune, said, “We have been conducting thalassaemia screening camps and lectures in colleges since December 2018 and have received a good response so far.”

Wednesday, May 8, is celebrated as World Thalassaemia Day. Thalassaemia is a blood related genetic disorder, which includes lack of genes responsible for production of haemoglobin. The severity of the disease depends on the mutations involved in the genes.

“A child conceived by two thalassaemia minors will be a thalassaemia major. Thalassaemia minor- are carriers, if two thalassaemia minors marry, they have a high chance of producing a thalassaemia major baby. Without a trait test one cannot identify if they’re a thalassaemia minor or not. This blood disorder, which occurs genetically, can be avoided if the parents get their DNAs tested, added Munshi.

Dr Rajeev Yeravdekar, dean, Symbiosis Institute of Health Sciences, said, “Thalassaemia is a major congenital blood disorder and it can lead to lifelong dependency and physical pain for the patient. It can be prevented by prior detection of the genetic trait among parents and hence, we are promoting screening tests at our university. We have received a good response from students who are willing to undergo the test.”

Bhaven Parikh, a Symbiosis Centre for Information Technology student who suffers from thalassaemia, said, “It is important for youngsters to get involved in this campaign as marriages between thalassaemia minors can affect the future. Prevention is the only key and hence, tests before getting married should be made compulsory.”