Is there a complete cure of thalassemia?
The only curative treatment of thalassemia major is bone marrow transplantation. Where as minor can also be cured by this procedure, it is not done in this condition. It is not necessary to treat patients with thalassemia minor because it is a harmless condition which does not effect the and the functions of these individuals. For such a mid disease bone marrow transplantation which is a serious and costly adventure is NEVER warranted. Question 5: How does thalassemia affect the quality of life: can patients with thalassemia major have children? Answer: In thalassemia major the blood which is produced is less in amount and poor in quality. These children are severely anemic; they must receive regular blood transfusion. This exposes them to a number of diseases including hepatitis, AIDS and iron overload. Their abnormal facial features, dark complexion, stunted growth, distended abdomen etc. make them handicapped in more than one ways. These children are sexually underdeveloped and many
