Serum Iron and Ferritin Levels in Beta Thalassemia Carriers in Duhok Governorate, Iraq

Background Thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) account for most cases of microcytic hypochromic anemia. It is a common misconception that iron deficiency does not occur in thalassemia. However, studies have found that iron deficiency can coexist in carriers of beta thalassemia. Objective The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron overload in carriers of beta thalassemia in Duhok, Iraq. Patients and methods This prospective cross-sectional study included 250 patients with beta thalassemia carriers attending Kurdistan Private Hospital Laboratory Department from July 2021 to June 2023. Patients with microcytic hypochromic blood picture were tested for HbA2 levels, and those with a level >3.7% were included in the study and were tested for serum iron and serum ferritin levels. Results The age range was 15-80 years, with a mean of 25 years, and the male-to-female ratio was 1.5:1. The prevalence of iron deficiency in beta thalassemia carriers was 16% (N = 40). The prevalence of iron overload was 8.4% (N = 21). There was a significant statistical difference among those with iron deficiency, normal iron status, and iron overload in terms of hemoglobin level (P=0.001), RBC count (P=0.012), HbA2 (P=0.015), and serum ferritin (P < 0.0001). Conclusion Iron deficiency is more prevalent in beta thalassemia carriers than iron overload, necessitating proper assessment of iron status in patients with beta thalassemia carriers. Those with abnormal iron status need effective treatment to optimize the overall outcomes in patients with beta thalassemia carriers.