The Neonatal Screening for Sickle Cell Disease, Thalassemia, and G6PD Deficiency in Central India

Rakesh K Jha1, Meghali Kaple1, Ranjit S Ambad1

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe, Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Wardha, Maharashtra, India.

Insights

Neonatal screening in Central India identified significant prevalence of sickle cell disease (SCD), thalassemia, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency in tribal newborns. Early detection is crucial for managing these genetic disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Public Health
  • Neonatal Screening

Background:

  • Sickle cell disease (SCD), thalassemia, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency are prevalent genetic disorders in Central India.
  • Tribal populations are particularly affected by these conditions.
  • Neonatal screening offers a pathway for early detection and improved health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of SCD, thalassemia, and G6PD deficiency in newborns from tribal regions of Central India.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of existing neonatal screening programs for these genetic disorders.

Main Methods:

  • Screening of 382 newborns from tribal areas.
  • High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) used for hemoglobinopathies.
  • Colorimetric method employed for G6PD deficiency detection.
  • Demographic and family history data were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Prevalence rates: 5.8% for SCD, 9.7% for thalassemia, and 7.6% for G6PD deficiency.
  • A notable correlation was observed between family history and the incidence of these disorders.
  • Identified a substantial burden of these genetic conditions in the screened cohort.

Conclusions:

  • Comprehensive neonatal screening programs are essential for tribal populations in Central India.
  • Early detection and management of SCD, thalassemia, and G6PD deficiency can significantly improve patient outcomes.
  • Findings underscore the public health importance of targeted genetic screening in vulnerable communities.
Abstract

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