Prevalence of transfusion-transmitted infections in multiple blood transfusion-dependent thalassemic patients in Asia: A systemic review
First published online April 22, 2022
Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin, the part of red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen. People with severe forms of thalassemia need regular blood transfusions to survive. However, these transfusions can sometimes expose patients to dangerous infections, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV, if the blood is not properly screened.
Our review article studied the risk of these transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs) in thalassemia patients across Asia. We found that hepatitis C is the most common infection among these patients, followed by hepatitis B and HIV. This highlights the need for improved screening processes and stricter safety measures to ensure that the blood patients receive is free from infections.
Genetic testing plays a vital role in identifying thalassemia carriers and helping families make informed health decisions. With better screening and safer transfusions, we can protect the health of thalassemia patients and reduce the risk of these preventable infections.
