A walk for Thalassemia

Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder in which there is a reduction in the rate of production of haemoglobin and thus causing anemia. Treatment for Thalassemia Major involves regular blood transfusions. Some patients may require a transfusion every three weeks and treatment is often a painful process. With proper care and treatment, a person with thalassemia can live near normal life. However, due to lack of systematic treatment, counseling and care, most children with thalassemia do not live to celebrate their 18th birthday in our country.

Over 2.5 crore people in India have the genetic trait for thalassemia. People with Beta Thalassemia trait usually experience no health problems other than a mild anemia. However marriage between two such individuals can result in a child being born with Thalassemia Major. With a premarital thalassemia carrier test or pre-natal test during pregnancy once can prevent the birth of a child suffering from thalassemia major. Awareness is the key to eliminating thalassemia.

Sankalp India Foundation is a registered voluntary youth organization that is working to promote blood banking and effective blood transfusion services in Karnataka. The organization runs a statewide helpline for blood, accessible via a single number 948004444, has conducted more than 150 blood donation drives leading to a collection of more than 20,000 units of blood and also provides emergency services when a person is looking for blood. As part of their “Initiative For Better Blood Banking” campaign, the organization also indulges in conducting state level workshops, compiling and circulating a free newsletter for all blood banks and indulging in various research studies aimed at improving blood transfusion services.

As part of AMIND 10 Years celebrations, Applied Materials India is partnering with Sankalp India Foundation to present the “The Walk for Thalassemia” – an initiative aimed at raising awareness on Thalassemia, and how cases of Thalassemia major can be prevented. This walk is scheduled to be held on 22nd October 2011 between 9 AM and 11:30 AM. The walk is held from Cubbon park to Freedom park. We would have students from various schools and colleges participating in the walk and spreading awareness.

Join in. Support the cause! ⊕