Ahmedabad, May 8: On World Thalassemia Day, Gujarat officials highlighted the importance of screening and advanced treatment services for the disease. The Ahmedabad Civil Hospital showcased its integrated approach, combining prevention, testing, and long-term care for patients.
Authorities emphasized that pre-marriage thalassemia screening, pregnancy testing, and family-based testing are crucial for preventing this genetic disorder, which can be passed down through generations. The hospital’s efforts align with the global theme “Hidden No More: Finding the Undiagnosed, Supporting the Unseen,” aimed at timely disease identification and providing prompt medical assistance to all patients.
Health officials stated their primary focus is to create a ‘Thalassemia-Free Gujarat’ through institutional care and awareness campaigns. State Health Minister Prabhul Panseria mentioned that under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s guidance, the state government is committed to this goal.
The state government is determined to achieve a ‘Thalassemia-Free Gujarat.’ Modern treatments and awareness campaigns provided by institutions like the Civil Hospital are making significant contributions in this direction.
Medical experts at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital reported substantial improvements in treatment facilities for thalassemia patients, especially for children requiring regular blood transfusions. Medical Superintendent Rakesh Joshi noted that the hospital, in collaboration with BJ Medical College, offers free and comprehensive care.
He added that the Civil Hospital has been a pioneer in introducing advanced services like leukodepleted blood transfusion and chelation therapy in Gujarat. Jolly Vaishnav, head of the pediatric department, explained that thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder where the body fails to produce adequate hemoglobin, necessitating regular blood transfusions for survival.
Currently, the hospital provides blood transfusions to around 81 children every Tuesday and Thursday. To reduce complications from transfusions, such as fever and adverse reactions, leukodepleted packed cell volume is utilized. The hospital has also enhanced its testing and long-term monitoring systems.
This includes tests based on High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for accurate patient and family screening. Regular monitoring is conducted through serum ferritin levels, 2D echocardiography, and eye and ear examinations. Free medications are provided to control iron overload resulting from frequent blood transfusions.
Patients receive counseling and guidance regarding bone marrow transplants, viewed as a potential treatment option. Preventive efforts have been intensified through targeted screening programs.
Nidhi Bhatnagar, head of the Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion Department, announced a special initiative to increase community awareness and facilitate early disease detection, which will involve screening approximately 5,000 healthcare workers.
Officials reiterated preventive measures, including pre-marriage thalassemia testing, carrier screening via HPLC, antenatal screening during pregnancy upon doctors’ advice, and family screening when necessary.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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