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Published on: August 24, 2011

Hemoglobinopathies and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in hospital births in Bahrain

A M Mohammed1, F Al-Hilli, K V Nadkarni

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Bahrain Defence Force Hospital, and Department of Pathology, Sulmaniya Medical Center, Bahrain.

Annals of Saudi Medicine
|November 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

A Bahraini study screened 10,327 newborns for hereditary blood disorders. High rates of sickle cell anemia, alpha-thalassemia, and G6PD deficiency were found, informing public health planning.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Genetics
  • Public Health
  • Hematology

Background:

  • High prevalence of sickle cell anemia, hemoglobin-H-disease, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in Bahrain.
  • Need for accurate gene frequency data to guide public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the gene frequency of sickle cell anemia, alpha-thalassemia, and G6PD deficiency in Bahrain.
  • To establish a baseline for developing comprehensive healthcare programs.

Main Methods:

  • Cord blood screening of 10,327 neonates born to Bahraini parents over 15 months (Oct 1984 - Dec 1985).
  • Analysis of phenotypes including AF, AF-Barts, SFA, and SFA-Barts.
  • Detection of G6PD deficiency.

Main Results:

  • Homozygous sickle cell disease detected in 2.1% of neonates.
  • Sickle cell trait present in 11.2% of neonates.
  • Alpha-thalassemia gene incidence (elevated Bart's hemoglobin) was 24.3%.
  • Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency incidence was 20.9%.

Conclusions:

  • Significant gene frequencies for hereditary blood disorders necessitate targeted public health interventions in Bahrain.
  • Study data supports the Ministry of Health and National Hereditary Anemia Society in planning healthcare programs.
  • Early identification through cord blood screening is crucial for managing hereditary anemias.

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