Can Thalassemia be prevented ?
In communities in which thalassemia is common, genetic testing may be offered to couples who are planning to have children. If a defective gene is found, they should seek genetic counseling. If a woman or her partner are known to have the disorder, tests can be performed to establish whether the fetus has inherited the genetic defect. (Prenatal genetic tests) Signs & Symptoms of Thalassemia Disease In nonfatal Alpha-Thalassemia, there are usually no symptoms or only mild ones. Mild forms of Beta-Thalassemia may also be asymptomatic. However, if the defective gene for Beta-Thalassemia is inherited from both parents, the symptoms of severe anemia typically appear between 4 and 6 months of age. These signs and symptoms of Beta-Thalassemia may include: Pale skin. Shortness of breath or mild exertion. Swelling of the abdomen due to an enlarged spleen and liver. Affected children have slow growth, and sexual development is delayed. The bones of the skull and face may thicken as the bone marr
