'Hope Continues' for UAE Thalassemia patients

International Thalassemia Day takes place each year on 08 May, but the UAE event was scheduled for a date and time believed to be more convenient and accessible for a greater number of UAE participants.

Thalassemia patients and their families participated in an educational lecture presented by Senior Doctors and Medical Advisors from across the UAE, followed by a question and answer session where they learnt about treatment updates.

The evening was devoted to entertainment and leisure activities.

"Thalassemia Day is a time to reflect on the seriousness of the disease and ask ourselves how we can extend and improve the lives of Thalassemia patients. It also provides an opportunity to educate the public on successful prevention programmes," said Dr. Khawla Belhoul, Director, Thalassemia Center, Dubai Health Authority.

"The UAE's Thalassemia community shows consistent resilience and positivity when faced with the challenges associated with the treatment of this chronic disease, and the ongoing support from the public contributes greatly to this," said Dr. Fatma Sajwani, Specialist Haematologist, Al Qassimi Hospital, Sharjah.