Narayana Hospital, Mysore Fights Thalassemia with Care & Innovation
2 min read
On May 8th, the world commemorates International Thalassemia Day, shedding light on the global effort to combat this genetic blood disorder. With the theme “Empowering lives, embracing progress: Equitable and accessible thalassemia treatment for all,” the focus remains on ensuring universal access to accurate diagnosis, current treatments, and holistic care for individuals with thalassemia.
Thalassemia, a rare blood disorder prevalent in India, disrupts the production of hemoglobin, resulting in a myriad of health challenges. Children with severe forms of thalassemia require lifelong blood transfusions and supportive care, amounting to a significant financial burden for affected families, particularly those from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Dr. Tarangini Durugappa, Consultant Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Narayana Hospital, Mysore, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive management to alleviate the burden of thalassemia. “Optimum management of thalassemia major involves significant financial expenditure and a multidisciplinary approach,” Dr. Durugappa explains. “At Narayana Hospital, we are committed to providing specialized care tailored to the unique needs of each patient.”
Despite the challenges posed by thalassemia, there is hope on the horizon. Stem cell transplantation (Bone Marrow Transplantation) offers a potential cure for many patients, while ongoing research in gene therapy holds promise for the future. Narayana Hospital, in association with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Coal India Limited, extends support to eligible patients through the “Thalassemia Bal Seva Jojana (TBSY),” providing financial assistance for Bone Marrow Transplantation.
Prevention remains paramount in the fight against thalassemia. Dr. Durugappa emphasizes the importance of comprehensive prevention strategies, including screening, genetic counseling, and awareness programs targeting socio-cultural barriers. “By identifying carriers early and offering genetic counseling, we can significantly reduce the incidence of thalassemia,” she asserts.
At Narayana Hospital, Mysore, a range of specialized services is available for thalassemia patients, including diagnostic tests, safe blood transfusions, and post-transplant care. With a dedicated team of experts and state-of-the-art facilities, Narayana Hospital is committed to empowering individuals with thalassemia and improving their quality of life.
As International Thalassemia Day draws attention to this preventable disease, Narayana Hospital, Mysore, reaffirms its commitment to combating thalassemia through compassionate care, innovative treatments, and community engagement. Together, we can create a future where thalassemia is no longer a barrier to a healthy and fulfilling life.
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