Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society (TSCS)

Affected patients depend on regular blood transfusion for survival, usually every two to three weeks. TSCS’ objective is to treat all thalassemia children and add years to their lives. TSCS offers free blood transfusions, free medical and genetic counselling, and periodic checkups for patients by specialized doctors and medicines at subsidized rates. Their diagnostic laboratory and blood bank are equipped with the latest facilities. As of March 2015, their Transfusion Centre had helped 2,054 Thalassemia/Sickle cell anemia patients with ages ranging from 3 months to above 30 years.

Some of their activities were:

• Transfusion Centre: The NGO had a provision for 30 day care beds for transfusions. They provide saline washed blood, drugs like Kelfer and Asurna at subsidized rates and offer their van for blood donation camps or for transporting patients in case of emergencies.
• Blood Bank:  TSCS blood bank was launched in March 2010 keeping in mind the need for safe blood for children affected by thalassemia. During the year, they organized 330 sensitization programs and 243 blood donation camps. They collected 18,395 units of blood and provided 10,084 units to those affected by thalassemia.
• Diagnostic Centre: The Diagnostic Laboratory was started in September 2011 to provide services for thalassemia patients and the general public round the clock. They offer a wide range of lab testing services and have high quality precision equipment.
• Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT): BMT is the only permanent cure for Thalassemia. TSCS has established a programme to ensure transplant and long-term follow-up to enhance the outcome and reduce cost. This is done in collaboration with centers where patients go to seek transfusions regularly – making care and management simpler. TSCS wishes to replicate this in Telangana & Andhra Pradesh with the help of Sankalp Foundation and the Public Health Care system.