Combatting thalassemia in the United Arab Emirates

Thalassemia is a major health challenge in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), however previous studies have focused on genetics and molecular characterisation while neglecting culture and society. In this commentary, we discuss how tradition and religion in the UAE (e.g. consanguinity, endogamy, illegality of abortion and in vitro fertilisation, adoption restrictions), and limited academic research, affect the prevention and management of the blood disorder. It is suggested that changing attitudes towards traditional marriage practices, education and awareness campaigns targeting families and young people, and earlier genetic testing, are culturally acceptable solutions to curbing the high incidence of thalassemia in the UAE.