This month is a time to raise awareness and understanding of the serious medical condition of Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS). TTTS occurs when identical twins in utero share a single placenta and blood vessels within the placenta become connected, allowing blood to flow unevenly between the two twins. This can cause one twin (the donor) to suffer from inadequate nourishment, while the other twin (the recipient) receives an excessive amount of oxygen and nutrients, leading to an increased risk of complications.
This month, we are focusing on raising awareness about TTTS, supporting those who are affected by it, and educating healthcare providers who care for pregnant women with multiples. It is estimated that TTTS affects between 10-15% of all twins each year, and we need to do more research to fully understand its causes and treatment options.
There are several signs that may indicate TTTS, including abnormal development in one or both twins, reduced amniotic fluid, preterm labor, high blood pressure in the mother, shortness of breath in one or both twins, growth restriction, or abnormalities on ultrasound images. If left untreated, TTTS can lead to serious complications such as miscarriage or stillbirth.
Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help reduce the risk of severe health problems associated with TTTS. Fetoscopic laser surgery is an effective way to divide shared blood vessels and restore balanced circulation between twins. This procedure has been shown to increase survival rates significantly when performed before 26 weeks gestation. Despite this progress, long-term outcomes for survivors are still largely unknown due to the lack of proper follow-up studies.
World Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome Month is a time for people to come together and work towards preventing and treating this life-threatening condition. By continuing our efforts, we can help families affected by TTTS experience brighter futures without fear or anxiety about their children’s health outcomes.
Symptoms include:
There may be a sudden increase in abdominal size, a rapid increase in weight, or abdominal pain or tightness. Early contractions may also be experienced.
There are some things you can do to celebrate World TTTS Month. It is important to remember the story of how TTTS was discovered and to remember the people who have been affected by it. You can also spread awareness about TTTS and its effects, and help support research into this condition.
HOW TO OBSERVE World TTTS Month:
The best way to observe World TTTS Month is to raise awareness among as many people as possible. The hope is that by increasing knowledge and understanding, more families will be able to access treatments when needed. Education can be shared through social media platforms or blogs, as well as speaking directly with others who may not yet be aware of TTTS.
You can participate in World TTTS Month by donating money or time towards research to find solutions for this condition. There are many charities that support this work, including First Candle, Mothers Miracle, and Little Heroes Foundation. Research into treatment options such as umbilical cord laser ablation surgery has helped many families gain better outcomes for their twins facing TTTS.
World TTTS Month provides an opportunity for those affected by TTTS to come together and support each other. Online groups like Twin Loss Support can be incredibly helpful for those grieving the loss of a twin due to TTTS or any other type of twin death/disorder. It's important to remember that even though World TTTS Month is only observed during the month of August, families around the world are dealing with TTTS 365 days a year. Raising awareness all year round can help ensure that nobody has difficulty accessing help and education when they need it most.
5 serious facts about World TTTS Month:
World Thrombosis and Thrombophilia Month (WTTM) is an annual event held in October to raise awareness about the importance of preventing, detecting, and treating thrombosis and thrombophilia.
Thrombosis is a blood clot that can occur in veins or arteries. It can lead to serious problems like stroke, heart attack, or pulmonary embolism if not detected early and treated properly. People who are at risk for thrombosis may have a condition called thrombophilia, which is an inherited condition where they are more likely to develop blood clots.
The World Thrombosis and Thrombophilia Month (WTTM) campaign was established in 2017 by the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) in order to raise public awareness about thrombosis and thrombophilia. The campaign provides access to reliable information about these conditions, promotes regular screening tests, and supports research into improved treatments.
During the month-long campaign, the International Society for Thrombosis and Hemostasis (ISTH) sponsors several events around the world, such as educational seminars, lectures, webinars, workshops on prevention strategies, and medical symposiums on new advancements in thrombosis treatment. Additionally, ISTH sponsors "Thomboscience" competitions which give students from various countries a platform to showcase their innovative ideas related to thrombosis and hemostasis research topics.
Early diagnosis of thrombotic diseases can save lives by reducing mortality rates by up to 30-40%. Early detection also helps in better patient management through the timely administration of correct medication therapy along with lifestyle modifications like healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and stress management techniques for primary prevention of thromboembolic events. People with family histories of thrombotic diseases should be especially aware of their individual risk factors so they can take appropriate preventive measures accordingly.
WORLD TWIN TO TWIN TRANSFUSION SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY:
World Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) Awareness Month is an annual event celebrated in October to bring attention to a rare prenatal condition that affects identical twins. TTTS is caused by an imbalance in the shared blood circulation between identical twins, leading to poor health outcomes for one or both babies. The condition has a serious impact on families and can cause life-altering consequences if not diagnosed or treated early.
There have been many campaigns throughout history to raise awareness about TTTS. The International Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome Foundation was founded in 1999 by two mothers whose babies had the condition. In 2002, the organization established the first "World TTTS Awareness Day" which is now celebrated as World TTTS Awareness Month.
World Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome Awareness Month is an opportunity to educate people about the causes of TTTS and how it can be managed with proper care and treatment. It also helps create a supportive community for people affected by TTTS. Additionally, it raises awareness for research initiatives aimed at finding better ways to diagnose and treat this condition.
Medical science has made significant advances in the detection and treatment of TTTS in utero in recent years. Doctors can now use ultrasound imaging and laser surgery to reduce or eliminate the risk of complications from this condition for twins in the womb. This has saved many babies' lives and improved their chances for long-term health outcomes after birth.
World Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome Awareness Month is an important event that helps bring attention to a serious issue facing pregnant women carrying identical twins. It highlights the importance of early detection through regular ultrasounds so that any problems associated with TTTS can be caught early enough for successful intervention. In addition, it brings together families who may have experienced similar losses or struggles associated with this condition so they can find solace in each other’s stories and support one another through difficult times.