Report on Thalassemia Awareness Camp & Free HLA Camp

On the occasion of World Thalassemia Day, the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Bareilly Branch, organized a Thalassemia Awareness Rally along with a Free Thalassemia Screening and HLA Testing Camp to promote awareness about thalassemia, encourage timely screening, and emphasize the importance of prevention and early diagnosis. The program commenced with a Thalassemia Awareness Rally in which more than 150 thalassemia affected children and their parents participated enthusiastically. The rally was flagged off by Shri Pradeep Singh, District Judge, Bareilly, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Mrs. Jaya, Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM), attended as the Guest of Honour. The rally started from IMA Bhawan and proceeded through Chowki Chauraha to Company Garden. The participating children carried placards displaying messages on thalassemia awareness, prevention, and the importance of regular treatment. They also held posters, kites, and flags carrying awareness messages, creating a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere. Dressed in specially designed Thalassemia Awareness T-shirts, the children won the hearts of onlookers with their enthusiasm, innocence, and determination, effectively spreading awareness throughout the city. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Atul Kumar Srivastava, President, IMA Bareilly, highlighted IMA’s continuous commitment toward the welfare of thalassemia-affected children. He stated that IMA Bareilly has adopted these children and provides them with free blood transfusions every month without the requirement of replacement donors. The blood supplied is leukodepleted and NAT tested, ensuring maximum safety and protection from transfusion transmitted infections. Dr. Srivastava further informed that the children undergo regular health check-ups and receive essential medications, including iron chelation therapy. He added that special medical camps are organized twice a year, during which expert doctors and hemato oncologists from Delhi conduct detailed evaluations and monitor possible complications associated with repeated blood transfusions. Speaking about future initiatives, Dr. Srivastava announced plans for a Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Program for thalassemia patients. Under this initiative, children will undergo free HLA matching tests, and those found to have suitable matches will receive approximately 90% financial assistance for bone marrow transplantation. He emphasized that a successful bone marrow transplant can offer these children the opportunity to lead a healthy and normal life. The rally and screening camp were attended by several IMA office bearers and distinguished medical professionals, including Dr. Anshu Agrawal (Secretary), Dr. Ravish Agrawal (Blood Centre Chairman), Dr. Pramendra Maheshwari (Community Service Chairman), Dr. Shalini Maheshwari (Treasurer), Dr. Rajeev Goyal, Dr. D. P. Gangwar, Dr. Anju Uppal, Dr. Parul Priya, Dr. Ruchi Srivastava, Dr. Archana Agrawal, Dr. Suvidha Mahaur, Dr. J. Sardana, and Dr. Shashi Kumar, along with many other esteemed doctors and dignitaries. Following the rally, a Free Thalassemia Screening and HLA Testing Camp was organized at IMA Bhawan, where more than 150 children underwent free screening and HLA testing. The camp was inaugurated by Dr. Raghavendra Sharma, MLA, Bithri Chainpur, who lit the ceremonial lamp and formally launched the program. To mark World Thalassemia Day, a cake-cutting ceremony was also organized. Doctors, guests, and participants encouraged the children and expressed their best wishes for their health, happiness, and brighter future. IMA Bareilly concluded the event with an appeal to society, emphasizing that awareness, timely screening, genetic counseling, and active community participation are essential for the prevention and control of thalassemia. The program successfully reinforced the message that collective efforts can significantly improve the lives of children affected by this inherited blood disorder.