This genetic disease was mentioned in a memo -- to be posted later -- about one family's genetic problems and the outcome. The search site also provides information in Italian language. Muriel M. Davidson <davidson3542@home.com> ============================================ <http://www.thalasemmia.com/message.shtml> Welcome to the website of the Northern California Comprehensive Thalassemia Center at Children's Hospital Oakland. We have been working hard for the last year to bring comprehensive thalassemia information to remote patients, providers, students and the general public that is simple to navigate through and easy to digest. We have modelled the site after our own care program, involving all aspects of care,from medical treatment to psychosocial issues, home care to patient/peer support. Thalassemia is the most common inherited single gene disorder in the world. Scientists and public health officials predict that with global improvements in childhood disease prevention and treatment, and with targeted programs to prevent mortality from malnutrition, thalassemia will become a worldwide issue in the next century. It is our hope that by providing electronic education about the disease, we can raise awareness, encourage people to get tested for trait, and spread knowledge about comprehensive treatment to the global community. Thalassemia is a multi-system, lifelong disease to treat, so there is a lot to know about it. If you have never encountered thalassemia before, try browsing through the Frequently Asked Questions, reading the Medical Definition of Thalassemia, or taking informative journey through our Genetics section, which has thorough explanation of thalassemia. Also, please check out our Patient Forum section for unique patients' perspectives on thalassemia, as well as art and poetry. If you're not a stranger to thalassemia and are looking for specific information, read the Table of Contents to see what's available in this site. You can also click on each section to view its contents. Or simply roll your mouse over the navigation image on the top of this page if you are using Internet Explorer 4.0 or Netscape 3.0 or higher. Each section has a number of sub-sections categorized to make the task of searching a little easier. You can also search the site for specific subjects using our internal search engine. Finally, don't forget to check our News and Updates periodically for new findings related to thalassemia. Thank you for visiting our site. Please keep returning for updates and new articles! Elliott Vichinsky, MD