Thalassemia (American English) (or Thalassaemia in British English), also knows as 'Cooleys Anemia', is an inherited disease of the Red Blood Cells, classified as hemoglobinopathy. The genetic defect results in synthesis of an abnormal hemoglobin molecule. The blood cells are vulnerable to mechanical injury and die easily. To survive, many people with Thalassemia need blood transfusions at regular intervals.

Prevalence: Estimated prevalence is 16% in people from Cyprus, 3-14% in Thailand and 3-8% in populations from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and China. A lower prevalence has been reported from Black people in Africa (0.9%) and Northern Europe (0.1%).

Symptoms of Thalassemia:

• Hemolytic Anemia
• Anemia and related symptoms of anemia
• Pallor
• Fatigue

Treatments for Thalassemia:

• Blood Transfusions
• Pain Relief Medications
• Genetic Counseling
  

Mild cases may not require treatment. Severe cases may require blood transfusions, removal of iron buildup in body (chelation), surgical removal of spleen or allogenic hematopoietic transplant.