Northern California's Comprehensive Thalassemia Center at at Children's Hospital Oakland

Cultural & Genetic Signifigance ::

The Different Cultures of Thalassemia

Traditionally, thalassemia is thought of a disease effecting populations adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea . However, at the Northern California Comprehensive Thalassemia Center at CHRCO, 80% of the patient population is of Asian origin. Many of these individuals are recent immigrants to the United States and almost half do not speak English. This represents two major hurdles in providing health care to our patients:

accurate translation of patient and medical information during patient visits, and
differences between eastern and western health beliefs.

Thalassemia is a complex disease which requires an understanding of genetics and biology to thoroughly understand. Unfortunately, many Asian and Southeast Asian languages, especially those spoken in rural regions, do not include vocabulary for modern medical and technical terms, therefore the ability to accurately translate disease and treatment information is hampered.
In order to overcome these translation difficulties, we have been attempting to use interpreters who have some medical training so they are more equipped to help our patients understand thalassemia. We also review information annually in hopes that any confusion may be identified and clarified.

Cultural Differences
Cultural beliefs of our patients regarding the origins of thalassemia and its treatment frequently differ from those of Western medicine. Care must be provided in a manner which integrates a respect for the patient's cultural beliefs with accepted medical practice. The diversity of the Asian population (Lao, Mien, Khmu, Chinese, Hmong, etc.) further increases the complexity of delivering culturally-sensitive care.

Northern Comprehensive Thalassemia Center