Thalassemia
الثلاسيميا
What is Thalassemia?
Thalassemia is a group of inherited blood disorders characterized by defects in the genes responsible for hemoglobin production. There are two main types: alpha-thalassemia and beta-thalassemia, each varying in severity from a silent carrier state to transfusion-dependent thalassemia major. The UAE and broader Gulf region have among the highest carrier rates globally due to consanguineous (family-related) marriages. The UAE government has made premarital screening mandatory to reduce the incidence of severe thalassemia. Carriers (thalassemia trait) often have mild anemia but can pass the gene to their children.
Symptoms
- ●Fatigue and weakness
- ●Pale or yellowish skin
- ●Slow growth and delayed puberty in children
- ●Dark urine
- ●Facial bone deformities (in severe cases)
- ●Abdominal swelling due to enlarged spleen
What Causes Thalassemia?
Thalassemia is caused by mutations in the genes that control hemoglobin production. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning a child must inherit the defective gene from both parents to develop the severe form. If both parents are carriers, there is a 25% chance with each pregnancy that the child will have thalassemia major.
Risk Factors
- ⚠Both parents carrying the thalassemia gene
- ⚠Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, South Asian, or Southeast Asian ancestry
- ⚠Consanguineous marriages (common in the Gulf region)
- ⚠Family history of thalassemia or unexplained anemia
How to Prevent Thalassemia
Premarital screening is mandatory in the UAE and is the most effective prevention strategy. Genetic counseling for carrier couples helps them understand the risks for their children. Prenatal testing is available for at-risk pregnancies.
When to Get Tested
All couples planning to marry in the UAE are required to undergo thalassemia screening. Individuals with unexplained mild anemia, especially of Gulf or Mediterranean ancestry, should be tested.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Reena Bhaisare, Specialist – Clinical Pathology (DHA No. 06420338-001). About our laboratory and medical review
References & Sources
- [1]WHO — ThalassaemiaAccessed: 2026-02-24
- [2]Mayo Clinic — ThalassemiaAccessed: 2026-02-24
- [3]Cleveland Clinic — ThalassemiaAccessed: 2026-02-24
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Related Conditions
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce adequate hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. It is the most common nutritional deficiency globally and highly prevalent in the UAE.
🩸Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder where red blood cells become rigid and sickle-shaped, blocking blood flow and causing pain crises. It is prevalent in the UAE and Gulf region, particularly among Emirati nationals.
💉Anemia
A condition where blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to tissues. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type, especially prevalent in the UAE.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The content is based on publicly available medical literature and should not replace professional medical consultation.