Hemoglobinpathologies (Thalassemia) Test

What is Thalassaemia?

Thalassemia is a blood condition caused by genetic deficiency. Thalassaemia is most frequently found in persons of Mediterranean, Asian, Polynesian and African descent. Thalassaemia causes the body to not produce enough haemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen around the body. This condition can give rise to anaemia which requires treatment and other more sever conditions which can be life threatening.

Symptoms of Anaemia

Symptoms of anaemia can include:

• Fatigue

• Muscle weakness

• Shortness of breath

Why should I get a Thalassaemia test?

There are two main type of Thalassaemia, Alpha and Beta. In both cases, they come from the child inheriting certain genetic deficiencies from their parents. Depending on whether one or both parents are carriers of the faulty gene, the child will be born either as a carrier of the genetic mutation, or will have a Thalassaemia condition of varying severity.

If you are of Mediterranean, African, Polynesian or Asian descent, and are planning to have children, you should find out if you are carrying this genetic mutation. If both the man and woman who are planning to have children are carriers, then you should seek medical advice on the risks that your child will be born with Thalassaemia. The disease can range from mild to sever, may require regular blood transfusions, and in some cases result in early death.

Symptoms of Thalassaemia

Symptoms of Thalassaemia can include:

• Anaemia

• Slow or delayed growth

• Development of gallstones

• Jaundice

• Unusual bone growth, including enlarged forehead or prominent cheeks

• Osteoporosis and weak bones that are prone to breakage

• Fertility problems

What will happen at my appointment?

During your appointment at your chosen health clinic, a clinician will collect a blood sample from you in a private consultation room. Your sample will then be sent to our certified laboratory for immediate processing. You can expect your results within five working days of the laboratory receiving your sample.

How will I get my results?

Once our laboratory has processed your sample, your test results will be uploaded to your secure online Patient Area. Your Patient Area is an encrypted part of our website that only you can access, where you can view your results and order additional tests.

We can also send your results via SMS or email if you wish. Our health advisory team is available to discuss your results with you and suggest the next steps in your treatment process if you have tested positive.

Can I talk to a doctor about my results?

If you would like to discuss your results, Better2Know is here to help. We can provide a discreet consultation with a private doctor at a time of your choosing. Your Better2Know doctor can answer all of your questions and provide access to any medication, additional testing and care you might need.

How do I book my test?

To book your confidential appointment, call our friendly booking team 24/7 at the number at the top of this page. You can also book your test online by clicking “Get Started.” From there, choose a health clinic near you, along with the required test from the provided options.