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29 August 2026

Stem cell donation for thalassemia patient

The topic provides important context on public health challenges, the role of NGOs in medical accessibility, and the impact of genetic diversity on healthcare delivery, which are relevant for GS2 health and social sector questions.

1 min read 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • Thalassemia major is a severe genetic blood disorder requiring regular blood transfusions for survival.
  • Stem cell transplantation is a curative treatment option but requires a Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) match.
  • India's high genetic diversity makes finding compatible unrelated stem cell donors difficult.
  • Only 0.09% of the relevant Indian population is registered as blood stem cell donors.
  • Approximately 10,000 children are born with thalassemia major in India annually.
  • High-resolution HLA typing is a critical barrier for economically disadvantaged families.
  • Non-profit organizations like DKMS Foundation India facilitate HLA typing and access to global donor registries.

Questions

  1. Discuss the challenges associated with the treatment of thalassemia major in India, specifically focusing on the role of genetic diversity and the availability of stem cell donors. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Public health interventions for rare genetic disorders require a robust infrastructure for diagnostics and donor registries. In light of the burden of thalassemia in India, analyze the role of public-private partnerships in improving access to life-saving medical technologies. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. What is the primary requirement for a successful stem cell transplantation in patients suffering from thalassemia major?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-08-29/stem-cell-donation-for-thalassemia-patient