Four children with thalassemia have been born in the Maldives during the first five months of this year, according to Male' City Group of Hospitals CEO Ibrahim Haleem.
Speaking on World Thalassemia Day, Haleem described the figure as “something to think about deeply” and stressed the importance of increasing public awareness and preventive measures.
He said one of the group’s key priorities is expanding awareness campaigns, early screening and counselling services.
According to Haleem, a new system providing information and guidance on thalassemia prevention, including pre-marital counselling will be introduced this year.
“It is the responsibility of every individual to get tested before marriage and follow the advice of health professionals to save future generations from the difficulties these children face,” he said.
Data released by the Blood Service in January showed that 650 active thalassemia cases were registered in the Maldives as of 10 January. Authorities also reported that 40 new patients had been added over the previous four years.
The issue has periodically sparked public debate on social media, including discussions over marriage between two thalassemia carriers.
Haleem also outlined several healthcare initiatives introduced or planned under efforts to modernize thalassemia services:
- Endocrinology services were launched in July last year
- Hematology services, HLA typing and specialized bone marrow transplant-related tests began in August with support from visiting doctors
- MRI T2* scanning was introduced at Hulhumale' Hospital to detect iron deposits in thalassemia patients
- A blood disease specialist is expected to begin services next month
- NAT testing, considered a gold-standard blood safety test, is scheduled to launch before the end of July
- Liver fibrosis scanning services are expected to begin at the Thalassemia Centre this year
Haleem said the government aims to ensure a “happy and dignified life” for thalassemia patients.
He pointed to plans for a dedicated thalassemia hospital, bone marrow transplant assistance through the Zakat Fund and financial allowances for patients as examples of increased state support.
