Doctors warn thalasemia patients against iron supplements

Samarinda — Thalasemia patients must strictly avoid iron supplements, as repeated blood transfusions can cause dangerous iron buildup in internal organs such as the heart and kidneys, Dr Dewi Paramita, a pathology specialist at RSJD Atma Husada East Kalimantan, warned on Sunday.

Dr Dewi explained that the genetic disorder, caused by damage to chromosomes 11 and 16, hinders globin protein production, leading to smaller, fragile red blood cells that easily break down during circulation.

She added that as there is no cure, pre-marital screening is essential for couples to detect if they carry the genetic trait before marriage. If both partners are carriers, there is a 50% chance their child will be a carrier and a 25% risk of inheriting severe, life-threatening thalasemia major.

In East Kalimantan, BPJS Kesehatan fully covers all treatment costs and support services at Samarinda’s Abdul Wahab Sjahranie Regional Public Hospital and Balikpapan’s Kanujoso Djatiwibowo Hospital.

Dr Dewi urged parents to remain vigilant for symptoms such as fatigue, excessive tiredness during physical activity, and pallor in their children.