Maharashtra Health Department Steps Up Thalassemia Screening and Awareness Across the State

Maharashtra is set to strengthen its efforts to prevent thalassemia through wider public awareness, early screening, counseling, and medical guidance. Minister of State for Public Health and Family Welfare Meghana Sakore-Bordikar has directed health officials to expand these activities across the state.

Health Department Reviews Thalassemia-Free Maharashtra Campaign

Sakore-Bordikar gave the directions during a review meeting at Arogya Bhavan on the progress of the ‘Ek Paul Thalassemia Muktikade’, or ‘One Step Towards a Thalassemia-Free Future’, campaign.

The campaign focuses on improving public understanding of thalassemia, encouraging timely testing, and providing counseling to people and families who may be at risk.

A special ‘Sankalp Week’ was organized from May 1 to May 8, 2026, to mark the first anniversary of the campaign. The week was aimed at increasing public participation and spreading information about thalassemia prevention.

Focus on Early Screening and Counseling

The minister emphasized that thalassemia is a hereditary blood disorder and that early screening, awareness, and proper medical counseling can play an important role in prevention.

She directed the Public Health Department to continue awareness activities for different sections of society, including students, citizens, pregnant women, and healthcare workers.

Special attention was given to premarital screening. People with thalassemia minor may not always have serious symptoms, which can make screening important for identifying the condition. When both partners carry the thalassemia trait, medical counseling can help couples understand the possible risks to their children.

More Thalassemia Tests and Awareness Programs Planned

The health department has been asked to expand screening activities, including tests such as HPLC and electrophoresis, which can help identify thalassemia and related blood conditions.

The minister also called for more blood donation camps, counseling services for pregnant women, and training programs for healthcare professionals. Awareness activities in schools and colleges are also expected to receive greater attention.

Officials were further instructed to encourage screening and counseling for family members of people living with thalassemia so they can receive appropriate medical advice when needed.

Community Participation Seen as Key to Prevention

Sakore-Bordikar said that reducing the impact of thalassemia requires participation from different sections of society. She highlighted the importance of timely diagnosis, suitable treatment, preventive measures, and access to reliable health information.

The meeting was attended by Health Services Commissioner Sanjay Katkar, Urban Health Services Commissioner Dr. Sunil Bhokare, Director Dr. Vijay Kandevad, Deputy Secretary Rajshree Sarang, State Coordinator Laxmikant Pimpalgaonkar, and Chief Minister’s Office Coordinator Chetan Bhojkar.

Deputy directors from various divisions of the Maharashtra Public Health Department also joined the meeting through video conferencing.