THALASSAEMIA AND GENETIC BLOOD DISORDERS:
Thalassaemia is the name given to a group of genetically inherited blood disorders. These disorders affect hemoglobin production in the red blood cells. Hemoglobin is a protein in the blood cells that carries oxygen around our bodies and is made up of two very important protein chains Alpha (a) and Beta (b) globin. Thalassaemia is passed on from parent and
child through the genes. Genes carry information about human characteristics such as eye colour, hair colour and haemo(globin). Some changes occur to genes, resulting in medical conditions. The globin genes carry information for individuals to make hemoglobin, however changes in the globin genes can result in the following:
1. Beta Thalassaemia:
a severe anaemia requiring life long treatment, including monthly blood transfusions.
2. Alpha Thalassaemia:
one type can be fatal for baby and dangerous for mother during pregnancy.
3. Sickle Cell Anaemia:
a condition which may require regular blood transfusions. Extremely painful blockages of blood vessels occur throughout life due to changes in shape of the red blood cells.
4. Haemoglobin E:
usually a benign condition, but if inherited with beta thalassaemia or sickle cell, can result in severe condition requiring life long treatment.
