Hereditary Blood Disorder Research Articles

Association of age to nutritional status and muscle mass in children with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundTransfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT) is a hereditary blood disorder that often leads to complications affecting growth, nutritional status, and muscle mass in children. This study aims to investigate the associations between age, nutritional status, and muscle mass in children with TDT, providing insights into the progressive impact of age on these parameters.MethodsOne hundred twenty-two children with TDT from March 2023 to March 2024 were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Their nutritional status was assessed using the 2006–2007 World Health Organization (WHO) Growth Charts, and their muscle mass was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Data related to age, gender, weight, height, fat-free mass (FFM), skeletal muscle mass (SMM), and soft lean mass (SLM) of children were collected for comparative analysis from the hospital record room. Furthermore, Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients and regression analyses were utilized to investigate the associations between age and both nutritional status and muscle mass.ResultsThe results of this study revealed negative correlations between age and wasting (r = −0.26, p < 0.001), stunting (r = −0.28, p < 0.001), FFM (r = −0.3, p < 0.001), SMM (r = −0.23, p < 0.01), and SLM (r = −0.36, p < 0.001). The regression analysis indicated that age was an independent predictor of wasting, stunting, and reduced muscle mass in these children (all p < 0.001).ConclusionOur study observed a trend of worsening stunting, wasting, and muscle loss in children with TDT as they age. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring both nutritional and muscular health in TDT patients. Early detection and comprehensive nutritional management may improve outcomes in this population.

Exploring experiences of mothers of children with thalassemia major in Indonesia: A descriptive phenomenological study.

Thalassemia is a hereditary blood disorder that poses significant challenges for affected children and their families. Caregivers, particularly mothers, often experience difficulties in managing their child's condition. Understanding their current experience is crucial for improving care and support. This study aimed to explore the experiences of mothers caring for children with thalassemia in Banten, Indonesia. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, involving semi-structured in-depth interviews with eleven mothers of children diagnosed with thalassemia. Data were collected from April to May 2023. The interviews were audio recorded, and the data were analyzed verbatim using Colaizzi's method to identify key themes related to the experiences. Three themes were developed: 1) Perception of thalassemia as a genetic condition, 2) Emotional, logistical, and practical caregiving challenges, and 3) Support received by mothers in caring for children with thalassemia. The findings highlight the multifaceted challenges faced by mothers of children with thalassemia and emphasize the need for improved communication, emotional support, and care coordination from nurses and healthcare providers. Future research should focus on expanding support systems and exploring effective interventions to enhance the quality of life for families navigating the complexities of chronic illness.

Differential gut microbiota composition in β-Thalassemia patients and its correlation with iron overload

Recent research highlights the significant impact of the gut microbiota on health and disease. Thalassemia, a hereditary blood disorder, requires regular blood transfusions, leading to an accumulation of iron in the body. Such changes could potentially alter the intestinal microbiota, thereby increasing the susceptibility of thalassemic patients to infection. In this study, we analyzed the fecal microbiota of 70 non-transfusion-dependent (NTDT) β-thalassemia/HbE patients and 30 healthy controls. Our findings indicate that iron chelation intervention had no detectable effect on the microbiome profile of thalassemic patients. However, the cross-sectional analysis revealed that the bacterial diversity and community structure in patients were significantly less diverse and distinct compared to those of healthy subjects. Using reference frames, we were also able to demonstrate that bacterial taxa that are known to produce short chain fatty acids, from the genera Alistipes, Coprococcus, and Oscillospira, and those from the family Ruminococcaceae, were less prevalent in the patients. In contrast, bacterial taxa associated with an unhealthy gut, including the genus Clostridium and those from the families Fusobacteriaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, and Peptostrptococcaceae, were more prevalent in patients and found to be correlated with higher levels of ferritin. Collectively, these changes in the microbiota could be regarded as markers of raised ferritin levels, and therefore, awareness should be exercised as they could interfere, albeit indirectly, with the treatment of the co-morbidities of thalassemia.

CRISPR/Cas9 in the treatment of sickle cell disease (SCD) and its comparison with traditional treatment approaches: a review.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a common hereditary blood disorder that profoundly impacts individuals' health, causing chronic pain, anemia, organ damage, increased susceptibility to infections, and social and psychological effects. Over the years, advances in treatment have improved the long-term outcomes of SCD patients. However, problems such as limited access to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and potential complications associated with the available therapies underscore the importance of continued research and development. The recent FDA approval of Casgevy (Exagamglogene autotemcel), a genetic therapy based on CRISPR/Cas9 technology, demonstrates a comprehensive effort to address the complexity of SCD using new technologies. This review explores the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 for treating SCD and evaluates its efficacy, safety, and long-term outcomes compared to traditional treatment approaches. Long-term research is needed to comprehensively assess the safety, effectiveness, and inclusion of CRISPR/Cas9, ensuring its overall efficacy.

Treating Sickle Cell Disease: Gene Therapy Approaches.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin molecules and thus distortion (sickling) of the red blood cells. SCD causes chronic pain and organ damage and shortens life expectancy. Gene therapy emerges as a potentially curative approach for people with SCD who lack a matched sibling donor for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Here, we review recent progress in gene therapy for SCD and focus on innovative technologies that target the genetic roots of the disease. We also review the challenges associated with gene therapy, including oncogenic risks, and the need for refined delivery methods. Despite these hurdles, the rapidly evolving landscape of gene therapy for SCD raises hope for a paradigm shift in the treatment of this debilitating disease. As research progresses, a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved and continuous improvements in gene-editing technologies promise to bring gene therapy for SCD closer to mainstream clinical application, offering a transformative, curative option for patients with this genetic disorder.

Neurovascular Manifestations of Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin, leading to the sickle shape of red blood cells. It has several vascular complications and the cerebrovascular ones are among the most frequent and severe both in children and in adults. This review summarizes the main neurovascular manifestations of SCD, including acute stroke, silent cerebral infarction, large-vessel diseases (moyamoya arteriopathy and aneurysms), and brain bleeding. Both epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment issues are addressed and prevention of cerebrovascular events, including silent cerebral infarctions, is particularly relevant in SCD patients, being associated to poor functional outcome and cognitive complaints. Transfusions and hydroxyurea are the main available therapy at the moment, but contraindications, availability, and complications might prevent their long term use, particularly in low-income countries. The role of transcranial Doppler in monitoring the patients (mainly children) is analyzed and a practical approach has been selected in order to give the main messages from the current literature for a better management of SCD patients.

Heme- and iron-activated macrophages in sickle cell disease: an updated perspective.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary blood disorder due to a single-point mutation in the β-globin gene. The ensuing hemoglobin has the tendency to polymerize upon deoxygenation, leading to the typical sickle shape of red blood cells. While the primary pathology of sickle cell disease is a direct consequence of altered red blood cells, emerging evidence highlights the central role of macrophages in mediating hemoglobin scavenging, perpetuating oxidative stress and inflammation, and causing endothelial dysfunction and tissue remodeling. Recent research uncovered the impact of heme and iron overload on macrophage polarization and functions in sickle cell disease, and its implication for chronic inflammation and tissue damage in vital organs such as the liver, spleen, lungs and kidneys. By providing a thorough understanding of the dynamic interactions between macrophages and various cellular components within the sickle cell disease milieu, these studies have laid the foundation for the identification of macrophage-related cellular and molecular mechanisms potentially targetable for therapeutic purposes to attenuate sickle complications. This review provides a current update about recent discoveries on heme/iron-activated macrophages in SCD, shedding light on their critical role in disease pathophysiology. Ultimately, it proposes avenues for future research aimed at addressing the relevance of these cells for other sickle complications and at targeting them to mitigate disease morbidity and improve patient outcomes.

Correlation between Serum Ferritin and Thyroid Hormones Level in Children with Thalassemia

Background: Thalassemia is a group of hereditary blood disorder characterized by reduced or absent globin chain synthesis resulting in transfusion dependent anaemia and iron overload. Due to regular blood transfusion and inadequate chelation therapy patient develop multiorgan dysfunction. Objectives: To find any correlation between serum ferritin and thyroid hormones level in children with transfusion dependent thalassemia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the department of Paediatrics and department of Medicine, Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital between June, 2021 to May, 2022, on one hundred children with transfusion dependent thalassemia who were on more than 12 times blood transfusion but did not take any chelation therapy and whose serum ferritin level were > 1000 ng/ml. Assessment of their thyroid hormones level and statistically its correlation with serum ferritin were done. Result: A total of 53 (53%) male and 47 (47%) female were included in this study. The mean age of the patients was 9.47 ±3.63 years. Mean serum ferritin was 1980±1126.19 ng/ml, mean serum TSH was 3.55±2.08 µIU/ml, mean serum free T4 was 1.10±0.18 ng/ml, mean serum free T3 was 3.64±0.37 pg/ml. Subclinical hypothyroidism and euthyroid were found in 20 patients (20%) and 80 patients (80%) respectively. No overt hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism were found. Mean serum ferritin in subclinical hypothyroid and euthyroid were 2407±995.37 ng/ml and 1875.59±1131.18 ng/ml respectively which difference was statistically significant (P value <0.05). Scattered diagram was done and it showed linear correlation between serum ferritin and serum TSH of subclinical hypothyroid group. No linear correlation was found between serum ferritin and F.T3 and F.T4 on scattered diagram. Positive (Pearson) correlation was found between serum ferritin and serum TSH of subclinical hypothyroid group and strong positive (Pearson) correlation (r=0.74, P=0.02) was found between them. Conclusion: This study showed that good percentages of children with transfusion dependent thalassemia are suffering from subclinical hypothyroidism. There is positive correlation between serum ferritin level and subclinical hypothyroidism.

Perceived Physical, Emotional and Monetary Burden among Caregivers of Thalassemia Patients: An Evidence-based Study from District Gujrat, Pakistan

Thalassemia is among the most challenging hereditary blood disorders with no permanent cure. The patients of thalassemia have to face multidimensional complications that may lead to physical, emotional, social, and monetary burdens, among others, that negatively affect the patients, their families, and especially the caregivers. The caregivers feel the burden owing to the long-standing character of the diseases and the struggling process for curing patients, and the caregivers have to face numerous burdens that lead them towards anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, aggression, poor relationships, lower productivity, and many others. The prime objective of this study is to understand the physical, emotional, and monetary burdens faced by caregivers, and primary data for this quantitative study were collected from caregivers of thalassemia patients of district Gujrat. Researchers applied the purposive sampling technique and a structured questionnaire to approach the study participants. The findings highlighted that the caregivers of thalassemia patients face a large number of physical (continued attachment, tiredness, isolation, lower productivity), emotional (aggression, depression, fear of losing a loved one life), and monetary (visiting health centers, arranging blood donors, travel and transportation, personal obligations) burdens that have significant impacts on their socio-economic, psychological and physical health.

Sickle Cell Anemia – A Societal and Clinical Challenge in a Wardha City

Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary blood disorder that poses significant clinical and societal challenges, predominantly affecting individuals globally. Clinically, it is marked by severe pain episodes, organ damage, heightened infection risk, and limited treatment options. These complications necessitate comprehensive, ongoing medical care. Societal challenges include healthcare disparities, stigma, psychosocial impacts, and barriers to education and employment. Addressing these issues in Wardha city requires improving access to specialized care, enhancing public awareness, investing in research for new treatments, and providing robust support systems for patients and caregivers. A multifaceted approach involving healthcare providers, researchers, policymakers, and communities is essential to effectively manage and mitigate the impacts of this debilitating disease..

Sickle cell anemia and early stroke detection and prevention in Nigeria

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common hereditary blood disorder worldwide, and sickle cell anemia (SCA), the homozygous state of SCD, is the most common and severe variant of the disease. Nigeria has the highest burden of SCA in the world. Hemolysis and vaso-occlusion can lead to a wide range of complications, including stroke which is one of the most devastating manifestations of SCA with significant morbidity and mortality. SCA remains the leading cause of stroke in black children. Without any intervention, strokes occur in approximately 11% of children with SCA before their 20th birthday, with the greatest risk in very young children between 2 and 5 years of age. In resource-constrained countries, where the burden of SCA is highest, stroke is underreported, hence the need to develop strategies for stroke prevention and early detection. Improving awareness among healthcare providers and the community can significantly reduce stroke rates and improve stroke detection. The goal of this manuscript is to discuss the progress that has been made in stroke prevention and detection in children with SCA in Nigeria and outline current challenges and future goals. We believe that our experience will be valuable not only in Nigeria which has the highest burden of SCA globally, but also in other low- and middle-income countries.

Psychological Burden among Pediatric Thalassemia Major Patients in Indonesia: A Review

Thalassemia a common hereditary blood disorder resulting in anemia. It is an important public health problem, with a high prevalence in Southeast Asia and Mediterranean countries, and preventable through screening programs. However, due to its chronic nature, permanent physical changes, troublesome complications, and lifelong treatment, pediatric patients with thalassemia major are more prone to mental disorders and cognitive impairment. Internalizing and externalizing problems are higher in pediatric patients with thalassemia. Children with β-thalassemia major exhibit lower IQ scores than healthy children. Neurophysiology and neuroimaging examinations have shown abnormal results in children with thalassemia. Co-morbidity with mental disorders increases the mortality, morbidity, and total healthcare costs of patients with thalassemia. Therefore, routine evaluation of mental health problems is recommended to accommodate the early detection and prompt treatment of mental disorders. A multidisciplinary approach for thalassemia patients and families should be delivered by providing appropriate medical care, psychosocial support, and good transition care to improve survival and well-being, assist good social integration and daily functioning, and cope with the stress of chronic disease.

Screening for thalassemia carriers among the Han population of childbearing age in Southwestern of China.

Thalassemia is a severe hereditary blood disorder that poses a significant threat to human health and leads to mortality and disability. It is one of the most prevalent monogenic diseases worldwide. The aim of this study was to analyze the molecular epidemiological data of individuals of childbearing age from the Han ethnic group with thalassemia in Southwest China and to explore the application of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology in screening thalassemia carriers. The participants were Han males and females of childbearing age who sought medical advice at the West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University from June 2022 to June 2023. We detected α- and β-thalassemia mutations using full-length capture of the thalassemia genes and NGS technology. In a cohort of 1,093 participants, 130 thalassemia carriers were identified, with an overall detection rate of 11.89% (130/1,093). Among these, 0.91% (10/1,093) had mutations that could not be detected using traditional PCR techniques. The proportions of carriers with α-, β-, and α-complexed β-thalassemia gene mutations were 7.68% (84/1,093), 3.93% (43/1,093), and 0.27% (3/1,093), respectively. We identified a novel HBA2 c.166del variant that has not been previously reported. Using NGS technology, we found that the mutation-carrying rate of thalassemia genes was 11.89% in the Han population of childbearing age in Southwest China. Compared with the results of traditional PCR techniques, NGS detected an additional 0.91% (10/1,093) rare genetic variants. NGS technology should be utilized as the primary screening method for thalassemia carriers among Han nationality people of childbearing age in Southwest China.

An Immunological and Molecular Study to Investigate the Genes (β-globin and HBA1F) in Patients with Thalassemia in Najaf Governorate

Abstract BACKGROUND: Thalassemia, a hereditary blood disorder, poses a significant health challenge globally. This study delves into the prevalence and characteristics of thalassemia, emphasizing the need for enhanced awareness and diagnostic measures, particularly in regions with high prevalence. The primary objective is to comprehensively investigate thalassemia, focusing on genetic mutations and hemoglobin (Hb) dynamics. The specific goals include identifying gene mutations through conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and exploring the correlations between different Hb types. METHODS: Blood samples, totaling three milliliters for ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid tubes and 2 ml for gel tubes, were collected from thalassemia patients and a control group. Genomic DNA was extracted for conventional PCR analysis targeting α and β-globin (HBB) genes. The specific primers were designed, and PCR products were electrophoresed for the gene detection. Demographic characteristics were recorded, and Hb electrophoresis was performed to assess HbA, HbA2, and HbF levels. RESULTS: The study revealed the presence of the HBB gene in 100% of thalassemia patients causing beta-thalassemia, contrasting with the control group. The absence of the HBA1-F gene in alpha-thalassemia patients was observed. Demographic analysis showed no significant age or gender differences between the two groups. Thalassemia patients, analyzed alongside the control group, exhibit elevated HbA2 levels (2.7%–6.6%) and increased HbF levels (2%–12.1%), surpassing normal ranges (HbA2: 2%–3%, HbF: 0.8%–2%). CONCLUSION: The study confirms HBB gene association and proposes HBA1-F absence as an alpha-thalassemia diagnostic marker. Distinctive Hb patterns in thalassemia patients, highlighted by robust negative correlations (HbA-HbA2) and moderate correlations (HbA-HbF), advance diagnostic and management strategies for beta-thalassemia.

Maximizing longevity: erythropoietin's impact on sickle cell anaemia survival rates.

Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) stands as a hereditary blood disorder characterized by mutated haemoglobin, causing red blood cells to adopt a sickle shape, leading to complications like vaso-occlusive crises, anaemia, and organ damage. Despite advancements in treatment, managing SCA remains challenging, with limited options to increase life expectancy and improve quality of life for affected individuals. This paper reviews the potential impact of erythropoietin (EPO) therapy in enhancing life expectancy and ameliorating complications in individuals with SCA. EPO, primarily recognized for its role in stimulating red blood cell production, holds promise in mitigating anaemia, reducing transfusion dependence, and possibly diminishing the frequency and severity of vaso-occlusive crises in SCA patients. Moreover, by stimulating red blood cell production, EPO therapy might alleviate the vaso-occlusive process, thus reducing the frequency of painful crises and associated complications. Additionally, considering the potential side effects and the need for continuous monitoring, the use of EPO in SCA treatment requires cautious consideration. The potential of EPO therapy in SCA offers a glimpse into novel strategies aimed at improving the quality of life and extending the life expectancy of affected individuals. In conclusion, while the application of EPO in SCA treatment holds promise, additional research is indispensable to comprehend its precise role, optimize dosing strategies, and ensure safety, thereby paving the way for enhanced life expectancy and improved outcomes for individuals living with SCA.

Telomere Dynamics in Sickle Cell Anemia: Unraveling Molecular Aging and Disease Progression.

Sickle Cell Anemia (SCA) is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, leading to the formation of sickle-shaped red blood cells. While extensive research has unraveled many aspects of the genetic and molecular basis of SCA, the role of telomere dynamics in disease progression remains a relatively unexplored frontier. This review seeks to provide a comprehensive examination of telomere biology within the context of SCA, aiming to elucidate its potential impact on molecular aging and the progression of the disease. The impact of oxidative stress on telomere dynamics in SCA is explored, with a particular focus on how increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) may contribute to accelerated telomere shortening and genomic instability. Furthermore, the potential relationship between telomere dysfunction and cellular senescence in SCA is investigated, shedding light on how telomere dynamics may contribute to the premature aging of cells in this population. The review concludes by summarizing key findings and proposing potential therapeutic strategies targeting telomere dynamics to mitigate disease progression in SCA. It also identifies gaps in current understanding and suggests avenues for future research, emphasizing the importance of further investigating telomere biology to advance our understanding of molecular aging and disease progression in Sickle Cell Anemia. This comprehensive exploration of telomere dynamics in SCA offers insights into potential mechanisms of molecular aging and disease progression, paving the way for targeted therapeutic interventions and improved disease management.

Povišena srednja zapremina eritrocita u anemiji srpastih ćelija - jedna priča, previše?

Abstract: Introduction: Sickle cell disease is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by defective hemoglobin. Red cell indices are proposed as potential tools for diagnosing and managing sickle cell disorders. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to assess the utility of red cell indices as screening tools for sickle cell anemia. One hundred consenting adults of both sexes participated. Haematological parameters, including packed cell volume, hemoglobin values, hemoglobin electrphoretic patterns, and red blood cell count, were examined. Mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and mean cell hemoglobin (MCH) were calculated. Data analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism Software Version 9, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05 (95% confidence interval). Results: Haemoglobin values were significantly lower in Hb SS subjects (5.68 ± 1.7g/dl) compared to Hb AA (11.30 ± 1.5 g/dl) and Hb AS groups (11.03 ± 1.4 g/dl) (F = 32.279; p < 0.00001). The pattern was consistent with PCV and RBC values. Among the red blood cell indices assessed, only MCV showed a significant elevation (95.7 ± 2.4 fl) in the HbSS group compared to other groups (F = 4.165; p = 0.0183). No statistically significant difference was observed in MCHC and MCH values between the three groups (F = 0.5373, p > 0.586 for MCHC; F = 0.607, p > 0.546 for MCH). The prevalence of haemoglobin variants was as follows: HbAA (77%), HbAS (19%), and HbSS (4%). Conclusion: This study highlights significant reductions in haemoglobin values in Hb SS subjects and a notable elevation in MCV values in the Hb SS blood group. Elevated MCV in sickle cell anemia, where red cells are typically microcytic, warrants further investigation for differential diagnosis.

Machine Learning Approach for Classification of Sickle Cell Anemia in Teenagers Based on Bayesian Network

In this study, we employed a Bayesian network approach for the classification of sickle cell anemia in teenagers based on their medical data. Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, leading to distorted red blood cells. Early detection and classification of this condition are crucial for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. Our research focused on leveraging the algorithmic power of Bayesian network to model and analyze a diverse set of medical parameters in teenagers, including age, platelet count, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), red blood cell count, packed cell volume etc. The Bayesian network method employed for the classification of sickle cell anemia involves using a probabilistic graphical model to represent the relationships among different medical parameters. The model incorporates Bayesian principles to update and refine its predictions as new information is introduced. The method identifies key features in the dataset that contribute significantly to the classification, providing valuable insights for early detection and intervention. The Bayesian network demonstrated remarkable efficacy in accurately classifying teenagers as either positive for sickle cell anemia or negative, achieving an impressive 99% accuracy rate. This high level of accuracy indicates the robustness of the model in discerning intricate patterns within the medical data. Key features contributing to the classification are found in the dataset, shedding light on their relevance in distinguishing between positive and negative cases of sickle cell anemia, especially in teenagers. Our findings provide valuable insights into the potential diagnostic significance of sickle cell anemia classification in the teenage population. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge in the field of medical informatics and computational biology, offering an efficient and reliable tool for healthcare practitioners in the early identification of sickle cell anemia in teenagers. The demonstrated accuracy of the Bayesian network shows its potential as an effective decision support system, aiding clinicians in making informed decisions and facilitating timely interventions for improved patient care.

Exploring The Effect of Wheat Grass Juice on Thalassaemia: A Comprehensive Review

Thalassemia is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by a deficiency in the oxygen-carrying protein (haemoglobin) and a reduced number of red blood cells in the body compared to normal. Mild forms of thalassemia may not necessitate treatment, while severe cases may require blood transfusions or a stem-cell transplant from a donor. Wheatgrass extract is seen as a supplementary treatment option for thalassemia, although research in this field is still in its early stages. Wheatgrass is a low-calorie substance but rich in essential nutrients, including antioxidants like glutathione, vitamin C, and vitamin E that plays a crucial role in combating harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress, and providing protection against conditions such as arthritis, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. The proposed mechanism behind wheatgrass extract involves the swift absorption of chlorophyll and its action at the cellular level in the bone marrow, facilitating heme production. Treatment with wheatgrass tablets has been found to maintain serum ferritin levels and increase HbF levels in children with thalassemia who undergo frequent blood transfusions. However, it does not appear to reduce the frequency of blood transfusions required. Wheatgrass tablets also contribute to an improved quality of life for children with thalassemia. The present study aims to investigate the effectiveness of wheatgrass therapy in patients with transfusion-dependent anemia, further extensive studies involving a larger patient population would be necessary.

Men's Essential roles in the Management of Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, leading to the deformation of red blood cells and subsequent health complications. While much research has focused on the clinical aspects of SCA, this paper aims to shed light on the crucial and multifaceted roles that men play in the comprehensive management of this condition. Men, as integral members of families and communities, contribute significantly to the support systems necessary for effective SCA management. From a biological standpoint, understanding the genetic inheritance of SCA requires an exploration of paternal contributions. Moreover, men are often primary decision-makers in families, influencing choices related to healthcare, treatment modalities, and lifestyle adjustments. This paper discusses the importance of men's active involvement in genetic counseling, family planning, and fostering a supportive environment for individuals living with SCA. Psychosocially, men play essential roles as emotional anchors and caregivers, providing crucial support to family members coping with the challenges of SCA. This study explores the impact of male involvement on the mental well-being of both patients and their caregivers. Additionally, it investigates the role of men in community awareness programs, challenging stigmas associated with SCA and promoting a more inclusive and understanding society. Economically, the burden of managing SCA can be substantial. Men often serve as primary earners, and their financial contributions are pivotal in ensuring access to quality healthcare, medications, and educational resources for individuals with SCA. In NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES (NIJSES) Volume 4 Issue 2 2023 ©NIJSES Publications Open Access ONLINE ISSN: 2992-5819 PRINT ISSN: 2992-6149 Obeagu et al., 2023 This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited Page | 21 conclusion, this comprehensive perspective highlights the indispensable roles that men play in the management of sickle cell anemia. Recognizing and harnessing these contributions can lead to more effective strategies for addressing the complex challenges associated with SCA, fostering holistic well-being for individuals, families, and communities affected by this genetic disorder.