Thalassaemia genes in Peninsular Arabs

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Genetics
• Population Health

Background:

• Peninsular Arab populations exhibit unique hematological profiles.
• Understanding these profiles is crucial for diagnosing blood disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and causes of hypochromia and microcytosis in Peninsular Arabs.
• To differentiate between alpha and beta thalassaemia traits in the studied population.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of haematological indices including MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin).
• Screening for beta thalassaemia trait and assessing Hb A2 levels.
• Statistical comparison of hematological parameters across ethnic groups.

Main Results:

• 40-50% of subjects showed hypochromia and microcytosis.
• Beta thalassaemia trait identified in 5% (severe hypochromia) and 10% (moderate hypochromia).
• Alpha thalassaemia is a probable cause for hypochromia in 30% with normal Hb A2.

Conclusions:

• Hypochromia and microcytosis are prevalent in Peninsular Arabs, with varying degrees.
• Both alpha and beta thalassaemia genes likely contribute to these findings.
• Ethnic variations and inbreeding may influence the distribution of thalassaemia genes.