Thalassemia Awareness Walk Held on Necklace Road in Hyderabad

A two-kilometre awareness walk promoting thalassemia prevention, early screening and accessible healthcare was conducted on Necklace Road in Hyderabad on May 8, 2026, coinciding with International Thalassemia Day. Telangana Health Minister C. Damodar Raja Narasimha flagged off the event, which drew participation from patients, caregivers and medical professionals.

Participants carried placards and raised slogans emphasizing the need for regular blood screening, genetic counselling and early diagnosis to combat thalassemia and sickle cell disease, inherited blood disorders affecting thousands across India. The walk aimed to reduce stigma and increase public understanding of preventive measures.

Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, president of the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society (TSCS), stated that timely screening and awareness can prevent thalassemia, and urged families to prioritize early testing. The TSCS said it will continue organizing outreach programs to expand access to diagnostic services.

The state health department said it plans to strengthen screening initiatives in rural areas, with a focus on high-prevalence districts. The TSCS will hold a follow-up awareness camp in Warangal next week.