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Frequency of coincident iron deficiency and beta-thalassaemia trait in British Asian children
R F Hinchliffe1, J S Lilleyman
1Section of Paediatric Haematology, University of Sheffield.
Insights
Beta-thalassaemia trait does not protect iron status in British Asian children. Iron deficiency is common, especially in those under five, indicating co-occurrence is frequent.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Hematology
- Genetics
Background:
- Beta-thalassaemia trait is a common inherited blood disorder.
- Iron deficiency is a prevalent nutritional deficiency.
- The interaction between beta-thalassaemia trait and iron status requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of combined iron deficiency and beta-thalassaemia trait in British Asian children.
- To assess if beta-thalassaemia trait offers protection against iron deficiency.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 470 children with red cell microcytosis was studied.
- Prevalence of beta-thalassaemia trait and iron deficiency was assessed.
- Data was analyzed, focusing on children under five years of age.
Main Results:
- 77 out of 470 children had beta-thalassaemia trait.
- 26 (34%) of children with beta-thalassaemia trait also had iron deficiency.
- Iron deficiency was most common in children under five (48.5%).
Conclusions:
- Iron deficiency is as common in Asian children with beta-thalassaemia trait as in those without.
- Beta-thalassaemia trait does not protect iron status.
- Iron deficiency and beta-thalassaemia trait can co-exist, particularly in early childhood.
Abstract:
A study was carried out to determine the frequency of combined iron deficiency and beta-thalassaemia trait in a cohort of British Asian children to see whether the trait protects iron status. Of 470 consecutive children with red cell microcytosis, 77 had beta-thalassaemia trait and 26 (34%) of these also had evidence of iron deficiency. It was most common and profound in children under five years of age where the prevalence was 16 in 33 (48.5%). This suggests that iron deficiency is no less common in Asian children with beta-thalassaemia trait than in those without. It should not be presumed that the trait protects iron status or that the two are in any way mutually exclusive, at least in the early years.
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