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Forecasting hemoglobinopathy burden through neonatal screening in Omani neonates
Salam Alkindi1, Shoaib Al Zadjali, Ali Al Madhani
1Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.
Hemoglobin
|April 1, 2010
Summary
This study screened 7,837 Omani neonates for hemoglobinopathies. Alpha-thalassemia was highly prevalent at 48.5%, with beta-globin abnormalities affecting 9.5%.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Hemoglobinopathies represent a significant global health concern.
- Understanding the prevalence of these disorders is crucial for resource allocation and healthcare planning in Oman.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of hemoglobinopathies in Omani neonates.
- To project the future impact of these conditions on Oman's health resources.
- To establish reference ranges for cord red blood cell indices in Omani neonates.
Main Methods:
- A prospective neonatal screening program was conducted in two major Omani cities.
- 7,837 consecutive cord blood samples were analyzed.
- Complete blood counts and hemoglobin profiles were assessed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
Main Results:
- No cases of Hb H (beta4) were detected.
- The incidence of alpha-thalassemia (alpha-thal), indicated by Hb Bart's (gamma4), was 48.5%.
- Beta-globin-related abnormalities occurred in 9.5% of samples, including sickle cell trait (4.8%), beta-thalassemia trait (2.6%), and sickle cell disease (0.3%).
Conclusions:
- Alpha-thalassemia is highly prevalent in Omani neonates.
- Beta-globin abnormalities, including sickle cell trait and disease, are also present.
- This study provides essential data for public health strategies and establishes crucial reference ranges for Omani neonates.
