KOTA KINABALU: Couples who are planning to get married are being encouraged to undergo a health screening and test for thalassemia. This is to determine whether they have thalassemia or are carriers of the disease, allowing them to make informed decisions about starting a family. Sabah has the highest number of thalassemia cases in the country.
Datuk Redonah Bahanda, the political secretary to the Chief Minister, emphasized the importance of family members and the community in supporting patients with thalassemia. Regular blood transfusions are necessary for these patients, making blood donors crucial in maintaining a continuous supply of blood for treatment.
Redonah stressed the significance of awareness programs and campaigns in addressing thalassemia. She highlighted these points during an event in Kota Marudu district, which aimed to raise awareness about thalassemia, blood donation, and related activities.
During the event, 68 pints of blood were collected, and 500 food baskets were distributed.