Living with Thalassemia

Thalassemia is a lifelong condition that presents many unique challenges in various aspects of life. Ongoing medical treatment can take a toll on patients and families, causing emotional distress and impacting the overall effectiveness of treatment, survival and quality of life.

According to the Guidelines for the Clinical Care of Patients with Thalassemia in Canada, patients should have access to a psychologist and a social worker with knowledge of the challenges faced by thalassemia patients at different stages of life.  Education, work, relationships, self-esteem, societal expectations, parenthood and life-goals can often be sources of stress and anxiety for people living with thalassemia.

Resources and support should be provided to help people living with thalassemia cope with their illness and develop self-management skills and healthy lifestyle behaviours.

If you, or someone you know, require assistance living with thalassemia, please contact us.