Thalassaemia refers to a group of diseases seen mainly in the Asian, Greek, Cypriote, Italian and ‘mixed population groups". For Beta-Thalassaemia the carrier frequency in these population groups is high (about 1-3 per 100). B-Thalassaemia is a severe haemolytic anaemia due to absent or deficient synthesis of b -globin. This in turn is due to a mutation in the b gene complex on chromosome 11. Affected individuals usually have severe hepatosplenomegaly. They require regular iron chelation therapy and blood transfusions every 4-8 weeks.
SA Thalassaemia Association
Mr D. Brijball
Tel: (031) 413-442
The International Birth Defects Information Systems (I.B.I.S) The International Birth Defects Information Systems (I.B.I.S) is a multi-lingual website dedicated to promote better care, wellbeing and prevention of malformation and developmental disorders through information sharing.
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Medical Genetic and Counselling Services
To find out more about genetic counselling, click here. To find out more about genetic counselling clinics, please contact Mrs Zain Jakoet on the following.
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The Department of Human Genetics, University of the Witwatersrand The department of Human Genetics at the University of the Witwatersrand has published information on the commoner genetic disorders in South Africa. Please click here for more information. |
The South African Society for Human Genetics The Southern African Society for Human Genetics (SASHG) is a non-profit organization for health care professionals involved and interested in Human or Medical Genetics. Please click here for more information. |
