Under the patronage of Dr. Sameera Naji Khdim, Dean of the College of Science for Women, the Department of Media and Governmental Communication , in cooperation with the Continuing Education Unit and the Ministry of Health, organized an awareness workshop on (Thalassemia and the dangers of smoking). The workshop was presented by Dr. Israa Majid from the Department of Reproductive Health, Dr. Waseem Kilan from the Department of Non-Communicable Disease Control, and Ms. Suha Younis from the Department of Health Promotion at the Ministry of Health. The event took place on Thursday, December 12, 2024, in the conference hall, with the attendance of faculty members, staff, and students of the college.
The workshop aimed to raise awareness about thalassemia, a genetic disorder caused by a malfunction in hemoglobin, which reduces the blood’s ability to effectively transport oxygen, leading to ongoing health issues. The workshop covered key symptoms and clinical signs, such as acute anemia, low hemoglobin levels, fatigue, jaundice, spleen enlargement, and stunted growth. It also discussed important treatment methods, including blood transfusions, stem cell transplants, and gene therapy, as well as the necessity of premarital screening to detect if either partner carries the disease. The importance of spreading health awareness in society to reduce the impact of this disease was emphasized.
In the segment on smoking risks, Dr. Waseem Kilan delivered an informative lecture about the dangers of smoking, its types, and its health, economic, and social effects on individuals and society. Cigarette smoking, the most common form, contains high levels of nicotine, tar, and toxic carbon monoxide. Hookah and e-cigarettes also have direct adverse effects on respiratory and digestive health, as well as dental health, in addition to cardiovascular diseases. The lecture also addressed the impact of smoking on women’s health and pregnancy, stressing the need for public awareness and education to reduce this phenomenon.
