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  Thalassemia

Thalassemia is a group of genetic blood disorders that affect approximately 1,000 individuals in the United States. The most severe of these disorders is Cooley's Anemia.

People with thalassemia have a genetic defect of their red blood cells that affects the cells' ability to produce normal hemoglobin. Red blood cells use hemoglobin to carry oxygen to tissues. As a result of the defect, most forms of thalassemia produce a chronic, lifelong anemia that begins in early childhood and often must be treated with frequent transfusions.

Prevention activities

CDC is developing a new program to

  • establish a surveillance system to monitor blood safety for thalassemia patients.

  • establish a network of specialized health-care centers to promote the management, treatment, and prevention of complications experienced by persons with thalassemia.

For more information

Locate a thalassemia care center

Organizations

Cooley's Anemia Foundation

 

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This page was last updated August 05, 2004


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National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities

The National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD) promotes the health of babies, children, and adults, and enhances the potential for full, productive living.  Our work includes identifying the causes of birth defects and developmental disabilities, helping children to develop and reach their full potential, and promoting health and well-being among people of all ages with disabilities.