Suspected cases of Thalassmia minor detected among few SDAU students

Palanpur, Aug 12 (UNI) Over 30 per cent students of Sardar Patel Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU) are suspected to have got Thalasemia minor.

This result was the outcome of a 'Thalasemmia Prevention Camp' organised by the the Indian Red Cross Society, Ahmedabad at the University campus recently.

Out of the 327 entrants tested at the camp, 120 were found to be suspected carriers of the Thalasemmia case.

Director of Students' Welfare, Dr Veer Singh Rathod said ''We have advised them to undergo further investigation.'' He said the suspects were personally counselled and briefed about the 'Thalssimia minor' case.

Mr Rathod said, ''It is not necessary that each doubtful case is Thalassmia but at the same time each doubt should be redressed as soon as possible. Though the outcome of the tests simply suggest the identical systems which are commonly found even in Anemia, hemophilia and likes. Each year we prepare a record of the health status of each new enterants.'' According to Dr Singh who is also a coordinator of the Red Ribbon Club working for the prevention of HIV, AIDS, Thalassmia awareness and for the promotion of safe blood donation programme, ''Thalassmia minor is a symptomless disorder and not that harmful.'' He said, however, in case a person carrying the Thalassmia minor ties a nuptial knot it can ruin the post married life and the newborn child may carry Thalassmia major which is dangerous.'' He said education for checking Thalassmia among educated families is necessary before finalising the marriage proposal adding that normally people would prefer to go for the family background, social status, qualification, and resources for their wards but usually omit the parental health history.

As an institution ''We always emphasize on our students not to forget vital aspect of health of the coming generation which is more important than traditional requirements from the life partner.'' ''Even if a single precious life of a prospective student is saved, it will save the next generation from getting ruined. That should be the great achievement in the life of a teacher.'' said Singh.

The Vice Chancellor of SDAU, R C Maheswari, expressed his concern over the detection of suspected Thalassmia Minor and emphasized on the needs to spread awareness among the young generation for the better health.

UNI