Health System Barriers to Thalassemia Care in Cambodia: A Regional Comparison
Soriya ROM
28/02/2026
Thalassemia is a genetic disease that raises public health concerns around the world, particularly in the Southeast Asia region. However, this disease remains a significant but under-recognized challenge in Cambodia. This study aims to explore the institutional gaps that shape the treatment of thalassemia in Cambodia. This study focuses on the structural factors that contribute to the concerning state of the disease in Cambodia and compares them with regional peers to identify system disparities. This literature review analyzes the influence of health infrastructure, finance, and policy on the approach to healthcare for thalassemia patients and discusses its position in the general state of the health care system. The search databases used in this literature review were PubMed, Google Scholar, WHO Publications, official Ministry of Health and non-governmental organizations reports. A total of 36 articles were included in this research paper. The findings suggest that Cambodia has limited health infrastructure and policy contributes to delayed detection and inconsistent treatment. In addition, primary care has particularly weak platforms and feeble financing mechanisms. Moreover, policy and governance gaps play a crucial role in reducing the sustainability of services. The results in this study may be beneficial in understanding the disease status in Cambodia. The purpose of this study is engaging in academic discussion of the healthcare theoretical framework and reasoning behind its worrying conditions.