Will Thalassemia Cause Death?

Severe thalassemia can cause early death (between ages 20 and 30) due to heart failure. Getting regular blood transfusions and therapy to remove iron from the body helps improve the outcome. Less severe forms of thalassemia often do not shorten lifespan.

How long do thalassemia patients live?

“Most thalassaemia patients would live up to the age of 25 to 30 years. Improved facilities will help them live up to the age of 60,” said Dr Mamata Manglani, head of pediatrics, Sion hospital.

Is having thalassemia dangerous?

When left untreated, this condition can lead to problems in the liver, heart, and spleen. Infections and heart failure are the most common life-threatening complications of thalassemia in children. Like adults, children with severe thalassemia need frequent blood transfusions to get rid of excess iron in the body.