Thalassaemia
An inherited blood disorder where the body makes less haemoglobin, causing anaemia. Severe forms need regular blood transfusions.
Quick Summary
Thalassaemia minor: usually no or mild symptoms. Major: severe anaemia, poor growth, pale skin, tiredness and bone changes from early childhood.
Regular blood transfusions and iron chelation for thalassaemia major; bone marrow transplant can cure some children.
Inherited from parents who carry the gene. More common in some communities in India.
Overview
Thalassaemia is caused by changes in the genes that make haemoglobin. People who carry one gene (thalassaemia minor or trait) are usually healthy.
If both parents are carriers, each child has a 1 in 4 chance of thalassaemia major. Carrier testing before marriage or pregnancy helps families make informed choices.
Symptoms
Tiredness and weakness
From anaemia.
Pale or yellow skin
In thalassaemia major.
Bone changes
Facial bone changes and weak bones.
Poor growth
Delayed growth and puberty in children.
Causes & Risk Factors
Biological Causes
Inherited mutations in the genes for alpha or beta globin, parts of haemoglobin.
Key Risk Factors
- Family history Both parents carrying the gene.
- Community Higher carrier rates in some groups.
- Carrier status Thalassaemia minor is often mistaken for iron deficiency.
Management & Treatment
01. Blood transfusions
Regular transfusions for thalassaemia major.
02. Iron chelation
Medicines remove extra iron from transfusions.
03. Bone marrow transplant
A possible cure for some children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should carriers take iron tablets?
Can it be prevented?
How is it diagnosed?
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Thalassemia | Beta Thalassemia(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Thalassaemia(opens in a new tab) · NHS