Iron overload — why it happens

Iron overload is the main long-term challenge in thalassaemia — and it’s not from your diet. Every unit of transfused blood carries iron, and the body has no way to get rid of the extra, so it builds up. (In NTDT, extra iron comes mainly from the gut instead.)

That stored iron collects in organs — mainly the liver, heart, and hormone glands — and, unchecked, can cause heart failure, liver scarring (cirrhosis), diabetes and hormone problems. This is why chelation and monitoring are so important.

The encouraging part: iron overload is preventable and treatable. Good, consistent chelation keeps it in a safe range and protects your organs.