Impaired physical ability in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia: Can regular physical activity be a countermeasure?

Transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia (TDβT) is a genetic disorder characterised by reduced or absent β-globin chain synthesis, resulting in chronic anaemia. Treatment consists of regular blood transfusions and chelation therapy to limit iron overload and its negative effects on organs (e.g. heart, lungs and liver). Despite improved life expectancy with transfusions and chelation therapy, TDβT patients experience poor quality of life and impaired exercise capacity (mainly due to muscle deconditioning and reduced cardiac inotropism). The aims of this review are (i) to discuss the role of organ dysfunction in the impairment of exercise capacity and reduced quality of life of TDβT patients; and (ii) to discuss physical activity as a potential therapeutic strategy to alleviate the multifactorial impact of the disease.