Thalassemia is a genetic disorder that prevents the body from producing normal haemoglobin.

According to the UAE’s Ministry of Health, 8.5% of the UAE’s population are thalassemia minor or carry the gene; but most of them are unaware of this condition.

Thalassemia major, which is life threatening, occurs when both thalassemia minor parents pass on the disorder to their child.

Pre-marital screening and avoidance of marriages within the family are the best ways to protect future generations from inheriting this disorder.