Screening of Hemoglobinopathies in Kahramanmaraş, TURKEY

Thalassemia and sickle cell anemia are prevalent in southern Turkey. Being in close proximity to Çukurova we screened Kahramanmaraş to assess the prevalence and foci of the diseases. The sample sizes were calculated by EpiInfo 6.0 computer program at 95% confidence level. 1491 subjects aged 2-69 were studied. Hematological parameters were analyzed by an electronic cell counter. Electrophoresis were performed and Hemoglobin A2 and hemoglobin F levels were determined on samples with MCV< 80 fL. The results of Canatan et al. on Elbistan were included in the final results. Thus, the prevalence of ß-thalassemia, hemoglobin D, Hemoglobin O Arab carriers were 0.68%, 0.28% and 0.013%, respectively. No hemoglobin S was detected. In conclusion, Kahramanmaraş seems not to be a high risk area but the public must be informed about these diseases. Every community in close proximity to high prevalence areas must be enlightened.