Prevalence of Hemoglobinopathies and Thalassemia Carriers in Women of Reproductive Age Group Especially the Prospective Mothers: A Single Center Study at West Bengal

Abstract

Background: Hemoglobinopathies are group of diseases characterized by abnormalities both quantitative and qualitative in the production of hemoglobin. In India, major concerned hemoglobinopathic disorders are sickle cell anemia and beta-thalassemia. The aim of the study was to prevent the birth of first thalassemic child by screening pregnant women before 17 weeks of gestation and offering prenatal diagnosis if needed and to increase the awareness among general population about prevention of birth of genetically abnormal child.

Methods: Blood samples were tested for complete blood count and hemoglobin electrophoresis.

Results: During the study period, a total of 1,083 women were screened; among them 50 women who carried abnormal pattern (beta-thalassemia) were detected. The prevalence of carriers was 4.61%. Apart from β-thalassemia and hemoglobin E carrier (1.10%), two additional variants were encountered.

Conclusion: The data regarding prevalence and distribution can be useful in prevention and management of various hemoglobinopathies.




J Hematol. 2016;5(3):99-102
doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jh297w

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