Thalassaemia is a condition which affects the regulation of haemoglobin in the blood. Those suffering with the condition generally tend to either not produce enough haemoglobin, or none at all. Haemoglobin is an important substance in the bloodstream, at it helps to carry oxygen around the body. Sufferers of Thalassaemia tend to be anaemic, often very tired, and very pale in appearance.
There are different kinds of Thalassaemia, which can be divided into alpha and beta categories. Beta Thalassaemia is more serious. It is also possible to have ‘Thalassaemia Trait’, in which you are a carrier of the condition, but do not experience symptoms. Those who are carriers have a high risk of having children with Thalassaemia.
Thalassaemia can have a great impact on a person’s day-to-day living, with the potential to pass the condition on to their children. The condition can cause organ failure and damage, and in extreme cases, be life-threatening. Thankfully, in the present day modern treatments are helping people to live longer with Thalassaemia. Many people are living well into their 50s and 60s following initial diagnosis.
Those with Thalassaemia tend to have their symptoms identified when they are just a few months old. It is also possible to have the condition identified in late childhood or even adulthood. Those suffering from Thalassaemia tend to experience the following symptoms:
How Thalassaemia Life Insurance, critical illness cover and income protection works:
An insurer will generally assess the following criteria when considering a life insurance application for a person with Thalassaemia:
The severity of your condition and/or symptoms
Any other underlying health conditions
Medical treatments undertaken
Prescribed medications
Whether you smoke
Whether you can work as a result of your condition
Your family’s medical history
Thalassaemia critical illness cover and income protection
Critical illness cover and income protection is generally unavailable for those suffering with Thalassaemia, due to the associated risks and complications linked to the condition. If you have Thalassaemia Trait and are a carrier of the condition, you may still be able to get income protection on standard terms if you do not have symptoms. An insurer will require access to your medical records and details of any times you have had off of work as a result of illness.
