Public Health Strategies for Improving Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes in Thalassemia-affected Pregnancies.

Abstract

Pregnant women with thalassemia are exposed to a wide range of unique challenges which calls for the need to give them added attention. As pregnant women with thalassemia are high-risk groups, there is an immense need to adopt targeted interventions to ensure that a successful pregnancy and outcome are accomplished. This must begin with the implementation of widespread preconception and antenatal screening to facilitate early detection of thalassemia carriers, predominantly in high-prevalence regions. The need of the hour is to raise awareness about thalassemia and the importance of early screening among the general population. In conclusion, pregnant women with thalassemia are prone to multiple adverse risks and complications. This calls for the need to implement specific public health interventions to minimise the associated risks leading to better maternal and neonatal outcomes.