World Thalassemia Day 2026: 5 lesser-known facts
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World Thalassemia Day
Every year, World Thalassemia Day 2026 is observed on May 8 to raise awareness about the severe blood disease Thalassemia and commemorating people who have died
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What is Thalassemia?
Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects the body`s ability to produce haemoglobin and healthy blood cells required for its functioning
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Origin
Thalassemia Day was established by the Thalassemia International Federation on May 8 in 1994 to honour George Englezos, who was the son of Panos Englezos
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Theme for 2026
The theme is "Hidden No More: Finding the Undiagnosed. Supporting the Unseen." calling for early detection and and stronger awareness about the blood disorder
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Thalassemia in India
Thalassemia is one of the few blood disorders in India that is recognised in the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act of 2016, calling for more attention
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