Beta-thalassaemia

The importance of education, adherence to iron chelation, and monitoring for iron burden and complications cannot be stressed enough.

Genetic counselling is strongly advised for parents at risk and for future pregnancies in families with a child with beta-thalassaemia major or intermedia.

Education and participation in support groups is encouraged. There should be reinforcement of the importance of regular iron chelation and monitoring. Regular physical activity and a diet with appropriate amounts of calcium and vitamin D should be encouraged.