Thalassemia is a blood disorder passed down through families
(inherited) in which the body makes an abnormal form of
hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
The disorder results in excessive destruction of red blood
cells, which leads to anemia. Severe thalassemia can cause early
death due to heart failure, usually between ages 20 and 30.
Getting regular blood transfusions and therapy to remove iron
from the body helps improve the outcome. Less severe forms of
thalassemia usually do not shorten lifespan. Genetic counseling
and prenatal screening may help people with a family history of
this condition who are planning to have children. Untreated,
thalassemia major leads to heart failure and liver problems, and
makes a person more likely to develop infections. Blood
transfusions can help control some symptoms. However, they may
result in too much iron, which can damage the heart, liver, and
endocrine system. Calling your health care provider Call for an
appointment with your health care