Thalassemia is a prevalent genetic hemoglobin disorder, particularly significant in South East Asia and Africa, with India reporting a prevalence of approximately 3.3%. Children with betathalassemia major require regular blood transfusions, which lead to complications, including iron overload and damage to various organs, including salivary glands. This study examines salivary parameters, including secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), pH, buffer capacity, flow rate and total antioxidant capacity, in children aged 5-12 years diagnosed with beta-thalassemia major, compared to healthy controls. A total of 40 children with beta-thalassemia and 40 healthy age- and sex-matched controls were studied. Results indicated significantly lower mean levels of salivary IgA (156.07 ± 30.27 vs. 184.20 ± 33.25), pH (6.42 ± 0.17 vs. 7.00 ± 0.13), buffer capacity (5.10 ± 1.07 vs. 10.85 ± 0.93), flow rate (5.10 ± 1.07 vs. 10.85 ± 0.93) and total antioxidant capacity (87.63 ± 7.56 vs. 1110.33 ± 35.20) in thalassemia patients compared to controls, with all differences being statistically significant (p<0.05). The findings suggest that beta-thalassemia major adversely affects salivary composition and flow, impairing oral health defenses and increasing vulnerability to microbial infections. These results underscore the importance of routine oral health evaluations and interventions in managing dental care for children with thalassemia, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies that encompass both dental treatment and parental education to mitigate associated risks.
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The Annals of Medical and Health Sciences Research is a bi-monthly multidisciplinary medical journal.