A Comparative Analysis of Haemoglobinopathy Diagnostic Techniques-The Ghanaian Picture and the Way Forward: A...

Although there are efficient methods for diagnosing haemoglobinopathies all over the world, their widespread application in Ghana is constrained by cost, infrastructure issues, and restricted access. In this narrative review, haemoglobinopathy diagnostic methods are compared, including assessment of their use in Ghanaian healthcare. In addition, methods to enhance early diagnosis and disease treatment are suggested.

A narrative review of papers published on haemoglobinopathies screening, and haemoglobin variants diagnosis were culled from three search engines, namely, PubMed, Mendeley, and Google Scholar. The search was limited to studies done in humans only and no language restrictions were used.

In Ghana, traditional techniques like cellulose acetate haemoglobin electrophoresis are still the most popular, whereas more advanced techniques like molecular diagnostics, isoelectric focusing, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) are not available. Novel point-of-care diagnostics are not yet commonly used, but they have potential for adoption in rural areas.

Increased infant and prenatal screening programs, molecular techniques and point-of-care testing investments, healthcare worker training, and primary care integration are all necessary to improve haemoglobinopathy diagnosis in Ghana.