Agarwal, M B2009-02-142009-05-302009-02-142009-05-302009-02-14Agarwal MB. Advances in management of thalassemia. Indian Journal of Pediatrics. 2009 Feb; 76(2): 177-84http://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/84379Thalassemias represent the most common single-gene disorder causing a major public health problem in India. Thalassemia and hemoglobinopathies probably developed over 7000 years ago as a defense against malaria. In simple terms, thalassemia is caused by a mutation in either the â-globin chain or the á-globin chain which combine equally in red cells to form hemoglobin. These mutations lead to varying degree of anemia resulting into thalassemia minor, intermedia or major. Present write up relates to advances in the management of â-thalassemia major.engAnemia, Iron-Deficiency --geneticsBone Diseases, Metabolic --geneticsBone Diseases, Metabolic --radiographyHemoglobinopathies --geneticsHemoglobins --geneticsHemosiderosis --drug therapyHumansIron --adverse effectsIron Chelating AgentsPoint Mutation --geneticsThalassemia --geneticsThalassemia --therapyJournal Article