Learning Programme

Hemoglobinopathies: Thalassemia’s & Sickle Cell Disease

Last updated: February 2026

Programme information

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Hemoglobinopathies: Thalassemia’s & Sickle Cell Disease

Hemoglobinopathies are among the most common inherited blood disorders worldwide, with signifi cant implications for patients, families, and healthcare systems. Thalassemia’s and sickle cell disease represent the two most clinically relevant groups, each associated with lifelong challenges such as chronic anemia, organ complications, and complex treatment pathways.

This program has been created by a faculty of specialist nurses, haematologists/oncologists, and patient advocates, with the goal of providing healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to support patients living with these conditions. Topics include:
• Understanding the pathophysiology and genetic basis of thalassemias and sickle cell disease.
• Evidence-based approaches to treatment, including transfusion support, iron chelation and new disease-modifying therapies.
• Curative and emerging options such as stem cell transplantation and gene therapy.
The crucial role of nurses and allied health professionals in education, monitoring, psychosocial support, and coordinated multidisciplinary care. As with all our resources, this learning program emphasizes the multidisciplinary team approach to care. Nurses, other allied health professionals, and patient organizations play an
essential role in ensuring both immediate and long-term needs of patients and their families are addressed.

On behalf of the faculty and the Haematology Nurses and Healthcare Professionals Group who developed this program, we hope this resource will support you in your practice and enhance the care you provide to individuals and families affected by thalassemia and sickle cell disease.