Does thalassemia alpha shorten life?

Depends: There are four grades of severity of alpha thalassemia. Lack of one or two genes would not affect the life span. Lack of three genes may alter health and life span. Lack of all four genes is generally not compatible with life. For good health - Have a diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, milk and milk products, nuts, beans, legumes, lentils and small amounts of lean meats. Avoid saturated fats. Drink enough water daily, so that your urine is mostly colorless. Exercise at least 150 minutes/week and increase the intensity of exercise gradually. Do not use tobacco, alcohol, weed or street drugs in any form. Practice safe sex, if you have sex. Get HPV vaccine.