■ Health Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha called for a united effort to make Telangana India’s first Thalassemia-free state.

■ Prevention through pre-marital screening, genetic counselling, and awareness to curb inherited blood disorders.

■ Over 11 lakh people have been screened for Sickle Cell Disease, with free treatment and bone marrow transplants available at NIMS.

■ The State will expand care by adding new Thalassemia Day Care Centres in Asifabad, Mancherial, and Karimnagar.

■ The government will provide free diagnostics, ₹10 lakh Aarogyasri coverage, and pensions for Thalassemia and Sickle Cell patients.

Metro India News | HYDERABAD

Telangana Health Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha has called for a united effort to transform Telangana into the country’s first Thalassemia-free state. Speaking at the Asian Thalassemia Conclave held at Kamala Hospital, organized by the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society, the Minister addressed a gathering of patients, medical experts, and international delegates.

The Minister emphasized that conditions such as Thalassemia, Sickle Cell Anaemia, and Hemophilia are not merely medical diagnoses but are severe, lifelong challenges that impact entire families and society. He highlighted the increased risk of transmitting these genetic disorders through consanguineous marriages. He stressed that the most effective path forward is prevention through pre-marital screening, genetic counseling, and widespread social awareness.

Minister Raja Narasimha detailed the robust measures the state government is taking to control these diseases and ensure patient welfare. He noted the successful implementation of screening for pregnant women in the Mahabubnagar and Medchal-Malkajgiri districts.

To support patients requiring regular care, the Minister announced the expansion of the state's healthcare network. "In addition to the existing Day Care Centres in Adilabad, Nizamabad, Warangal, and Khammam, we will soon be establishing three new centers in Asifabad, Mancherial, and Karimnagar," he declared.

Highlighting the progress in early detection, the Minister stated that over 11 lakh individuals in the state have already been screened for Sickle Cell Disease. Those diagnosed are receiving free treatment at government hospitals. He also pointed out that advanced life-saving procedures, including Bone Marrow Transplants, have been made available at NIMS Hospital.

Outlining the 'Telangana Health Vision 2047,' the Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to accessible and equitable healthcare. He highlighted the financial security provided by the Aarogyasri scheme, which offers cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh. "Through T-Diagnostics, we are ensuring that all necessary tests for Thalassemia, Sickle Cell, and Hemophilia patients are conducted completely free of cost. We will ensure facilities are available for any additional testing required," he added.

Concluding his address, the Minister stated that the government’s ultimate goal is to ensure no child is born with a preventable disease and no family is pushed into poverty due to medical costs. He urged the government, medical professionals, and civil society to work together to realize "Mission Thalassemia-Free Telangana."

In a significant move to support the livelihoods of those affected, the Minister promised that the government would take immediate steps to ensure every Thalassemia and Sickle Cell patient receives a pension.