Hematologic reference intervals for healthy adult Saudis in Riyadh

Standard hematological reference ranges are often based on non-local populations. This creates potential misinterpretation in clinical settings. Prior research has shown that ethnic and geographic factors influence blood parameters. However, no prior work had resolved the need for region-specific data in Saudi Arabia. The absence of localized reference values may lead to diagnostic errors. This gap motivated the development of population-based hematological norms. Researchers aim to improve clinical decision-making by aligning reference ranges with local demographics. The study addresses the lack of tailored hematological data for Saudi adults.

The study aimed to establish hematological reference intervals for Saudi adults in the central region. Researchers focused on age and gender as key variables. They wanted to compare these values with international standards. The motivation was to improve diagnostic accuracy for local patients. They also sought to highlight limitations in current universal reference ranges. The study design aimed to minimize biases from subclinical conditions. They collected data from a cross-sectional sample of healthy volunteers. The goal was to support more precise clinical assessments in Saudi healthcare settings.

The study used a cross-sectional design in the central Saudi region. Researchers recruited 637 healthy Saudi adults after screening 827 individuals. Participants completed detailed health questionnaires. Blood samples were analyzed for full blood count and hemostatic profile. Serum hematinics were also measured to assess iron status. The reference intervals were calculated using 90% confidence intervals. Data were stratified by age and gender for more accurate representation. The methodology aimed to reflect the natural variability in the local population.

The study found significant differences between local and international reference ranges. Hemoglobin levels in males were 14.8 g/dL compared to 13.8 g/dL in standard ranges. Female hemoglobin values averaged 12.5 g/dL versus 12.0 g/dL in global norms. Platelet counts were higher in the local population than in established references. Mean corpuscular volume showed a 1.2 fL difference in favor of the local sample. Red blood cell distribution width was 13.4% compared to 12.8% in standard data. Serum ferritin levels were 112 ng/mL for males and 32 ng/mL for females. These findings suggest the need for region-specific hematological norms.

The authors propose that local reference ranges improve diagnostic accuracy for Saudi adults. They suggest that universal ranges may not reflect the local population's physiology. The study highlights the need for region-specific norms in clinical practice. They note that differences in hemoglobin and platelet values are clinically relevant. The authors caution that subclinical conditions may affect reference values. They recommend larger studies to refine these findings further. The study supports the development of national hematological reference standards. They emphasize the importance of population-based data for accurate clinical assessments.