It can be important to think about how your Thalassemia might impact you if you are in University or work. Making sure that you have the support in place and that you are able to manage your condition means that you can focus on the other areas of your life that are important and help you to find a course or job you enjoy.

You don't have to tell your employer but it can be helpful to think about doing so. If you have Beta Thalassemia Major this is of particular importance.  You might find that you need time to attend appointments, have more tiredness just before you have a blood transfusion and have pain or mobility issues that impact on your work. If you do choose to talk to them you are protected by law from discrimination and your employer needs consent before sharing your information further.

Talking to your university or employer can help you to make sure that you have the support in place. You might find that they don't know much about Thalassemia and so you might need to help them understand the condition alongside the impact on you. Support you might find helpful could include flexible working to help with appointments and managing tiredness and access to lifts or parking spaces near to work if you struggle with mobility.

You can find out more about options and your rights at work here.