Booklets that were promoted contained 3 main messages: a) Carriers can be identified, b) The homozygous state is a severe disease needing continuous transfusions combined with chelation against iron overload, and c) Couples identified as being at risk because both members are carriers have options to avoid having affected children, including fetal diagnosis which is safe for the mother and the fetus.

The information given in interviews includes mention of birth control, mate selection, fetal testing and artificial insemination by a donor. The genetics of the a , b and g loci is explained. Furthermore, patients can inform their relatives who may decide to have themselves tested.