World Thalassaemia Day 2025 | Theme, significance and all you need to know about the day

World Thalassaemia Day is observed on May 8 every year to raise awareness and promote action around the genetic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.

The day reminds governments, medical professionals and the public about the importance of diagnosing and treating the disease. The theme this year is 'Together for Thalassaemia: Uniting communities and prioritising patients', underscoring the need for a patient-centred approach.

According to the Mayo Clinic, thalassaemia is a blood disorder that is inherited, which means it's passed from parents to children through genes. The disease causes the body to have less of the protein haemoglobin than the normal count which will affect the oxygen supply across the body. Eventually, this can lead to a condition called anaemia.

What causes thalassaemia?

Haemoglobin molecules are made of protein chains called alpha and beta, and these chains are affected by gene changes which can either cause alpha-thalassaemia or beta-thalassaemia, the two types of the disease. The condition can cause anaemia, fatigue and other complications, affecting individuals of all ages, as per Mayo Clinic.

History of World Thalassemia Day

World Thalassemia Day was established by the Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF) in 1994, in memory of George Englezos, the son of TIF founder Panos Englezos.

George died due to thalassaemia, and the day was globally observed to remember such individuals who are affected and ensure their safety. Since then, the day has been marked every year with campaigns, blood donation drives, and policy talks across different countries.

Symptoms

The symptoms of the disease are based on the severity and it mainly includes fatigue, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, facial bone deformities, dark urine, and abdominal swelling.

In recent years, significant progress has been made in the treatment and management of thalassaemia. Advancements in medical research have led to the development of new treatments, including gene therapy and stem cell transportation.

However, it is necessary to take more measures to address the social and emotional challenges faced by the victims of the disease. As we observe World Thalassemia Day 2025, let us all cooperate to support those who are affected and work towards a future where everyone has access to quality treatment across the globe.

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