Telangana takes a significant step toward its ambitious goal of becoming India's first thalassaemia-free state by 2035. The state government will establish three new thalassaemia daycare centres in key districts.
New Centres Boost Access to Critical Care
Health Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha made the announcement during the Asian Thalassaemia Conclave at Kamala Hospital in Hyderabad. The new facilities will open in Asifabad, Mancherial, and Karimnagar.
These centres join existing thalassaemia care units in Adilabad, Nizamabad, Warangal, and Khammam. Together, they create a stronger network for patients across Telangana.
Patients with thalassaemia require regular blood transfusions, careful monitoring, and long-term follow-up care. The expanded facilities will make these essential services more accessible to families in remote areas.
Minister Calls for Collective Action Against Genetic Disorders
Addressing patients, medical experts, and international delegates at the conclave, Minister Narasimha emphasized the need for united efforts. The event was organized by Hyderabad's Thalassaemia and Sickle Cell Society.
The minister highlighted that genetic blood disorders like thalassaemia, sickle cell anaemia, and haemophilia create lifelong challenges. These conditions affect not just patients but also their families and society as a whole.
Prevention Remains the Best Strategy
Minister Narasimha stressed that prevention offers the most effective approach to combating thalassaemia. He pointed to several key measures that can reduce the incidence of genetic disorders.
- Pre-marital screening for genetic conditions
- Comprehensive genetic counselling services
- Increased public awareness campaigns
The minister specifically noted the importance of these measures in communities where consanguineous marriages are common. Such marriages between close relatives can increase the risk of passing on genetic disorders.
Telangana's Comprehensive Healthcare Approach
The state government has already screened more than 11 lakh people for sickle cell disease across Telangana. Those diagnosed with the condition receive free treatment at government hospitals.
Advanced treatments including bone marrow transplants are now available at NIMS (Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences). This represents a significant advancement in care for patients with severe blood disorders.
Minister Narasimha reiterated the government's commitment under Telangana Health Vision 2047. The state provides cashless treatment up to 10 lakh rupees through the Aarogyasri scheme.
All essential diagnostic tests are conducted free of charge under the T-Diagnostics initiative. This comprehensive approach ensures that financial barriers do not prevent patients from receiving necessary care.
The establishment of three new thalassaemia centres demonstrates Telangana's serious commitment to eliminating this genetic disorder. With expanded facilities and a focus on prevention, the state moves closer to its 2035 goal of becoming thalassaemia-free.
