THE Ministry of Health (MOH) has launched five key documents to serve as national references on thalassaemia, strengthening Malaysia’s approach to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the hereditary blood disorder.
Among the publications are the National Thalassaemia Control and Prevention Programme Strategic Plan and Action Plan 2024–2030, the Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Thalassaemia (Second Edition), the Malaysia Thalassaemia Registry Annual Report 2022–2023, the National Thalassaemia Screening Programme Guidelines for Primary Healthcare, and the Thalassaemia Carrier Mapping and Report from the Screening Programme for Form 4 Students (2017–2021).
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the launch reflects MOH’s strong commitment to improving care and reducing the burden of thalassaemia in Malaysia.
“Thalassaemia is a hereditary condition with a long and complex treatment process that can cost up to RM2.74 million,” he said in a statement today.
“More importantly, it is a preventable disease. Early screening, genetic health education, and counselling not only meet policy objectives but also serve as cost-saving measures and social investments for the health of future generations.”
Dr Dzulkefly also reported that to date, 212 patients have been successfully cured of thalassaemia through bone marrow transplantation.
“Besides transplants, continuous prevention efforts have significantly reduced new thalassaemia births by 49 per cent over the past 12 years (2009–2021),” he added.
The comprehensive documentation and updated clinical guidelines mark a significant milestone in Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to reduce the incidence of thalassaemia and improve quality of life for those living with the condition. - June 1, 2025
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