How can Sabah control the birth of thalassaemia patients?

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Sabah Can Control Thalassaemia Births Through Mandatory Pre-Marital Screening and Enhanced Public Awareness

The Sabah Thalassaemia Society (STS) advocates for mandatory pre-marital thalassaemia screening to help couples identify potential risks before having children. This measure, coupled with ongoing public awareness campaigns and community engagement, aims to reduce the incidence of thalassaemia births and foster a healthier future generation. The society's efforts are supported by corporate contributions and initiatives focused on patient empowerment.
Mandatory Pre-Marital Screening Recommended

The Sabah Thalassaemia Society has proposed that the state government implement a specific law requiring all couples to undergo thalassaemia screening tests prior to marriage. Such a mandatory screening would allow prospective couples to discover early if they are carriers or affected by the disease. This is in contrast to the current situation where thalassaemia screening is not compulsory for marriage, unlike HIV testing.
Addressing the Burden of Thalassaemia in Sabah

As of 2018, Sabah recorded a significant number of 1,814 individuals diagnosed with thalassaemia. The most affected age demographics were children and adolescents, with 391 patients aged 10-14 years, 370 aged 5-9 years, and 327 aged 15-19 years. Sadly, individuals with thalassaemia major often have a reduced life expectancy, with many succumbing to the condition between the ages of 18 and 23.
Public Awareness and Community Engagement Campaigns

The STS is actively conducting its Thalassaemia Awareness Campaign 2.0, which runs from 2020 to 2023. This initiative involves collaboration with local village heads and the Village Community Management Council (MPKK) to effectively disseminate accurate information about thalassaemia within communities. The overarching objective of these awareness efforts is to control and mitigate the risk of births affected by thalassaemia, thereby working towards a healthier future population.
Corporate Support and Patient Empowerment Initiatives

Repsol Oil & Gas Malaysia Limited has demonstrated significant commitment to supporting thalassaemia awareness initiatives in Sabah. Since 2014, the company has contributed RM330,000 towards these campaigns. Furthermore, Repsol has extended its support by providing skills training and resources to thalassaemia patients, enabling them to establish home-based businesses, thereby fostering economic independence and improving their quality of life.

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How can Sabah control the birth of thalassaemia patients?

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