Whether thalassemia is severe depends on the specific type and severity.

Thalassemia, also known as Mediterranean anemia, Cooley's anemia, or hemoglobin synthesis disorder anemia, is a hemolytic anemia caused by a genetic mutation. Thalassemia is a hereditary disease, and its severity depends on the specific type and severity level.

Thalassemia can be divided into alpha-thalassemia and beta-thalassemia. Alpha-thalassemia includes silent carrier, trait, and major forms. Beta-thalassemia includes minor, intermediate, and major forms. Individuals with mild alpha-thalassemia generally do not exhibit significant clinical symptoms or have noticeable impacts. However, major thalassemia often leads to significant developmental abnormalities and can result in early death.