Thalassemia burden in West Bengal higher than national average
Beta Thalassemia and sickle cell disorders continue to be major health challenges in India, with Thalassemia being one of the most common inherited blood disorders. The condition results in a reduced level of haemoglobin in the body, impairing the transport of oxygen in the blood. It is among the most common single-gene disorders worldwide.
The National Health Mission report of 2016 estimates that approximately 10,000 to 15,000 babies with Thalassemia Major are born each year in India. Studies have also pointed out that certain communities, including Bengalis, Sindhis, Punjabis, and Gujaratis, exhibit higher carrier frequencies.
In West Bengal, the burden of Thalassemia is exacerbated by several factors, including a lack of awareness and the prevalence of intra-community marriages. 'We have over 18,000 blood transfusion-dependent patients in the state. The patient positivity rate stands at 2.5%,' a source in the West Bengal Health Department told The Hindu.
To mark World Thalassemia Day on May 8, awareness programs were organized across the state to educate the public. A 2020 study published in the International Journal of Contemporary Medical Research found that many people remain unaware of Thalassemia's inheritance patterns. Inadequate screening and a lack of education on the disease have been major contributors to its spread.
West Bengal currently has 36 Thalassemia Control Units (TCUs) across various districts, which are actively screening populations, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy and among adolescents. The goal is to ensure that future generations are free of Thalassemia.
'As there is no law in India regarding this, we cannot prevent marriages. The best we can do is raise awareness. If two carriers marry, the likelihood of having a child with Thalassemia is high, which is why screening during the first trimester is crucial,' said the health department source.
To further raise awareness, Prof. Rajib De, Clinical Lead Hematology at Narayana Health, Kolkata, urged parents to focus on a balanced diet low in iron, timely vaccinations, and maintaining proper hygiene to avoid infections. He emphasized the importance of mental health support for children with Thalassemia, given the severity of the condition.
'In regions with such high prevalence, early screening, informed parenting, and consistent care can make a significant difference,' Prof. De said.
Without proper care, children with Thalassemia may not live beyond 30 years of age. Experts stress that screening both parents for Thalassemia before planning a child is crucial to preventing the condition and improving long-term outcomes.
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