Cooley's Anemia

The Cooley’s Anemia topic includes research on Cooley’s anemia, also called beta thalassemia major, a severe inherited blood disorder. People with this condition make too little of a component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Low hemoglobin levels cause severe anemia beginning early in life.

Anemia can lead to fatigue and problems with growth and development. People with Cooley’s anemia often need repeated blood transfusions, which can cause iron to build up and damage organs. Research can improve understanding of the genetic changes involved and guide treatments that address anemia and reduce complications of long-term care.