Thalassemia Screening Program Launched For Grade 10 Students

The Ministry of Education has launched a Thalassemia Screening Program for school students today, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Maldivian Blood Services. 

The program was inaugrated by Minister of State for Education, Aishath Safoora. 

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Targeting students in grade 10, the program integrates screening activities with education and awareness with the goal of empowering youth to make informed decisions about their health; the first screening session was conducted at Arabiyya School. 

The screening program follows a nation-wide Thalassemia testing and awareness drive launched on Thursday by the Ministry of Health. Plans are also underway to establish a specialised Thalassemia Hospital, according to the Minister of Health Dr Abdulla Khaleel.

Thalassemia is a hereditary blood disorder that poses a significant health challenge globally, affecting individuals of all ages. It is a very common disorder in Maldives, with the beta-thalassemia trait present in 16 percent of the population.