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Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency among ethnic groups in Iraq
Insights
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is prevalent in Iraq, affecting both adults and infants across all ethnic groups. The incidence rates in adults (8.9%) and infants (8.4%) were not statistically different.
Area of Science:
- Medical Genetics
- Hematology
- Public Health
Background:
- Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a common inherited red blood cell disorder.
- Understanding the prevalence of G6PD deficiency is crucial for public health initiatives and clinical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of G6PD deficiency in newborn infants and adult males in Iraq.
- To investigate the distribution of G6PD deficiency across different ethnic groups in Iraq.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 889 cord blood samples from newborn infants.
- Analysis of 563 venous blood samples from adult males.
- Screening for evidence of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
Main Results:
- G6PD deficiency was detected in all ethnic groups studied in Iraq.
- The overall incidence was 8.9% in adults and 8.4% in infants.
- No statistically significant difference in incidence was observed between adults and infants.
Conclusions:
- G6PD deficiency is widespread in the Iraqi population, affecting both neonates and adults.
- The findings suggest a consistent prevalence of G6PD deficiency across different age groups in Iraq.
- The study also provides evidence linking favism to local knowledge in southern Iraq.
Abstract:
A total of 889 cord blood samples collected from newborn infants of both sexes and 563 samples of venous blood collected from adult males in Iraq were examined for evidence of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. The deficiency was proved to exist in all ethnic groups in Iraq and in both adult males and infants. The overall incidence of the deficiency was 8.9% in the adults and 8.4% in the infants. The difference is not statistically significant. Evidence is given to suggest that favism ("khsaissa") is known to the people of southern Iraq.