In 2008, DP World's UAE Region embraced a major CSR programme becoming the custodian for Thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder, in the UAE. DP World, in cooperation with the Emirates Thalassemia Society and the Dubai Health Authority, is leading the initiative to prevent Thalassemia. DP World released a three-phased campaign - Awareness, Prevention and Blood Donor Registration – to curb the prevalence of Thalassemia in the UAE and support those currently living with Thalassemia.
Patients of Thalassemia live three weeks at time, their red blood cells need to be replaced by a monthly blood transfusion. With the alarming statistic of 1 in 12 people in the UAE being a carrier of Thalassemia it is a community cause DP World is proud to aid.
The frightening thing is that most people are unaware of their status as a carrier. With a simple test, people can be informed and avoid passing the gene to next generation: be informed, get tested.
The situation for individuals with Thalassemia is further complicated by only being able to transfuse blood within 5 days of a donation. People are walking blood banks; the best storage facility for transfusion blood is in people. Therefore, a database of blood donors is being developed to ensure blood is available.