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Haemoglobin electrophoresis patterns in Barbados

M A St John1, F N Lungu

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Barbados.

The West Indian Medical Journal
|January 20, 2000
PubMed

Insights

This study screened 997 newborns in Barbados for haemoglobinopathies, finding a 7% prevalence. Sickle gene prevalence and Sickle Cell Anemia cases are lower than in other Caribbean regions.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Genetics
  • Hematology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Haemoglobinopathies are prevalent globally, but prospective Caribbean birth studies are scarce.
  • Understanding regional variations is crucial for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of haemoglobinopathies in newborn infants in Barbados.
  • To establish baseline data for future health planning.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort study screened 1000 consecutive cord blood samples from newborns.
  • Paragon acid electrophoresis was used for haemoglobinopathy screening.
  • Confirmatory testing at one year was performed on a subset of infants.

Main Results:

  • A 7% prevalence of haemoglobinopathies was detected in 997 conclusive samples.
  • Common genotypes included Hb AA (93%), Hb AS (4%), and Hb AC (2.7%).
  • Rare genotypes Hb SS (0.2%), Hb CC (0.1%), and Hb SC (0.1%) were identified.

Conclusions:

  • The prevalence of the sickle gene and Sickle Cell Anemia in Barbados newborns is lower than previously reported in regional territories.
  • This study provides essential epidemiological data for Barbados.
  • Further research can inform targeted screening and management strategies.

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