Delayed growth and development in children is a symptom associated with thalassemia.

Delayed growth and development in children is a symptom associated with thalassemia.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not applicable
• D. Sometimes

Answer: (B)

Thalassemia often leads to delayed growth and development in children because chronic anemia lowers the oxygen delivery to tissues and increases the body's energy demands, which can slow growth. In more severe forms, ongoing transfusions can cause iron overload, which can damage endocrine glands and delay puberty, further affecting growth and development. While some children with milder disease or well-controlled conditions may grow more normally, the overall pattern commonly includes growth delays, making the statement true.

Thalassemia often leads to delayed growth and development in children because chronic anemia lowers the oxygen delivery to tissues and increases the body's energy demands, which can slow growth. In more severe forms, ongoing transfusions can cause iron overload, which can damage endocrine glands and delay puberty, further affecting growth and development. While some children with milder disease or well-controlled conditions may grow more normally, the overall pattern commonly includes growth delays, making the statement true.