AUTHOR=Dan Mihai-Octavian , Gutu Bianca-Ioana , Severin Emilia , Tanase Vlad-George 

TITLE=Innovative and Needs-led research on β-thalassemia treatment methods

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Hematology

VOLUME=1

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/hematology/articles/10.3389/frhem.2022.1085952

DOI=10.3389/frhem.2022.1085952

ISSN=2813-3935

ABSTRACT=<p>Beta-thalassemia is a well-known blood genetic disorder inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. Beta-thalassemia is found everywhere in the world as a rare, relatively rare, or common disease depending on the ethnic population. Affected individuals have chronic anemia associated with delayed growth, pale skin, weakness, fatigue, and more serious complications resulting in early death. Those with the severe form need frequent lifelong transfusions and depend on blood donations to survive. This literature mini-review highlights the healthcare needs that are not optimally met by people living with beta-thalassemia. The needs-led research can help to improve clinical outcomes through more appropriate management of the disease, increase provider satisfaction, and reduce the cost of care.</p>