How Many Thalassemia Patients Are Registered in India?
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Synopsis
In 2025, the alarming rise in thalassemia cases in India has been highlighted by the government, revealing over 4,300 registered patients, with nearly 2,600 being children under 12. This article delves into the current state of thalassemia in India and the measures taken to combat this growing health challenge.
Key Takeaways
- 4,361 registered thalassemia patients in India as of 2025.
- 2,579 children under 12 affected.
- Government initiatives include the Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana.
- Regular monitoring through the National Sickle Cell Portal.
- India has one of the highest rates of thalassemia globally.
New Delhi, July 29 (NationPress) A staggering 4,361 individuals have been officially recorded as thalassemia patients in India in 2025, with 2,579 of them being children under the age of 12, as revealed by the government during the ongoing Monsoon session of Parliament on Tuesday.
Thalassemia is a serious genetic blood disorder that is inherited from parents to offspring.
This condition arises when the body fails to produce sufficient amounts of a protein known as hemoglobin, which is crucial for red blood cells, necessitating blood transfusions every two weeks.
In a written response to the Rajya Sabha, Anupriya Patel, the Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, provided details regarding the number of thalassemia patients registered across the nation over the past three years.
According to Patel, "The number of thalassemia patients has seen a significant increase from 806 in 2023 to 2,576 in 2024 and reaching 4,361 in 2025."
The rise in cases is particularly pronounced among children under 12.
“In 2023, only 360 children under 12 were documented with this condition, which surged to 892 in 2024 and 2,579 in 2025,” the Minister highlighted. All cases have been recorded across 18 states.
In response to the escalating incidence of this genetic disorder, the government introduced a thalassemia module on the national Sickle Cell Portal in 2023, enabling states to input existing patient records.
“Regular monitoring and follow-up are conducted, and thalassemia screening data is consistently updated on the National Portal,” Patel stated.
Additional initiatives implemented by the government to combat thalassemia include support for states under the National Health Mission (NHM).
The Center offers assistance to states for thalassemia prevention and management in public health facilities, which includes access to blood bank services, daycare centers, medications, and laboratory services.
“In collaboration with Coal India Limited (CIL), the Ministry launched the Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana (TBSY), providing up to Rs 10 lakh in financial aid for eligible patients needing Bone Marrow Transplants (BMT) funded by CIL's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions,” Patel explained.
This program, offering BMT in 17 accredited hospitals nationwide, has already benefited over 700 children in need of life-saving transplants, allowing most of them to live healthy, normal lives.
India holds the title of the thalassemia capital of the world, with one in every eight thalassemia patients globally residing in the country. Annually, approximately 10,000 to 20,000 new thalassemia majors are born.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge the alarming rise in thalassemia cases in India. The data presented underscores an urgent need for enhanced healthcare strategies and community awareness. The government's initiatives are commendable, but sustained efforts and collaboration are essential to effectively address this pressing health issue.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is thalassemia?
Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that impacts the body’s ability to produce hemoglobin, resulting in anemia and requiring blood transfusions.
How many thalassemia patients are there in India?
As of 2025, India has registered 4,361 thalassemia patients, with a significant proportion being children.
What measures is the government taking to address thalassemia?
The government has implemented several initiatives including the Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana and added a thalassemia module to the National Sickle Cell Portal to improve patient monitoring.
What is the Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana?
This scheme provides financial assistance for Bone Marrow Transplants to eligible patients, funded by Coal India Limited’s CSR.
Why is thalassemia a concern in India?
India is termed the thalassemia capital of the world, with a high incidence of the disorder, making it vital to address this public health issue urgently.
