THIS is with reference to Dr Saqib Ansari’s and Salima Muhammad Khowaja’s letters, ‘Thalassaemia: preventive strategies’ (May 8), enlightening on the prevalence of the disease .

Both have pointed out that there exists lack of awareness regarding prevention, diagnosis and treatment of thalassaemia. However, they have not dealt with its aspects in detail.

A drug called 5-azacytidine, which is sold under the trade name Vidaza, is used in the treatment of patients suffering from beta-thalassemia, a blood cell disease characterised by insufficient synthesis of beta-globins.

The incorporation of Vidaza into the DNA of these patients leads to the activation of their gama-globins genes. As a result, red blood cells become filled with fetal haemoglobins which are incapable of meeting the individual’s oxygen transporting requirements.

It is suggested that the synthesis of 5-azacytidine, which is an analogue of cytidine (a component of RNA), if found suitable can be undertaken by the HEJ Research Institute or the PCSIR Labs through a joint research and development programme. The electronic media needs to spread awareness regarding the disease.

DR M. QUDRAT-E-KHUDA Karachi