World Thalassaemia Day 2023, Know the Theme for the Year, History, and Significance

World Thalassemia Day 2023, dates back to 1994 and exists to create awareness among the masses about the blood disease affecting hemoglobin count.

Written by: Arjita Gupta

Edited by: Krutarth Ghosalkar

Last Updated: May 08, 2023

World Thalassaemia Day is recognized every year on 8 May and the event is in memory and recall for all Thalassaemia patients, who are fighting the disease. For those who are unaware, Thalassaemia is an inherited disorder. Here the blood does not contain enough proteins that carry oxygen. The protein deficit causes an abnormal drop in the hemoglobin amount as the body cannot produce the same. International Thalassaemia Day is about making people know about this blood disease. The deficiency of oxygen-carrying particles in the blood leads to weakness, fatigue, anemia, and other issues.

According to the severity of the condition, it is categorized into alpha-thalassemia (problem with the alpha-globin gene) and beta-thalassemia (problem with the beta-globin gene), starting from mild to dangerous. The seriousness of the disease depends on the part of the hemoglobin molecule that is affected. Blood transfusions are often required for the patients. They should follow a nutritious diet concentrating on the intake of food items rich in iron, folic acid, antioxidants, and more.

Tracing the history of the medical condition, World Thalassemia Day was established first in 1994. It was organized by a non-profit organization, Thalassemia International Federation (TIF), founded by Mr. Panos Englezos in 1986. The National Thalassaemia Association was represented by patients of the disease and their parents in the USA, UK, Cyprus, Italy, and Greece. The day was initially observed in honor of George, the son of Mr. Panos. George had succumbed to Thalassemia.

In 2023, the theme is strengthening education to bridge the care gap for Thalassemia. This will define International Thalassaemia Day this year. The theme strives to improve the knowledge and skills of those impacted by the disease. And the day is about creating awareness about Thalassemia among policymakers, healthcare workers, and people. The celebration is to focus on the management, treatment, and prevention of the disease. Global communities and organizations are working together to make treatment for Thalassemia available to patients in better ways.