Haemoglobin C gene in south eastern Nigeria

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Hematology
• Population Studies

Background:

• Haemoglobin C (Hb C) is notably rare in eastern Nigeria, contrasting with its higher incidence in western Nigeria.
• Previous reports indicate isolated occurrences of Hb C in the eastern region, necessitating further investigation into their origins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the distribution and origin of Haemoglobin C (Hb C) in Akwa Ibom State, southeastern Nigeria.
• To identify specific populations or geographical areas where Hb C may be present.

Main Methods:

• Hb electrophoresis was conducted on a cohort of 4,263 individuals aged 15 and above from diverse local government areas in Akwa Ibom State.
• Participants represented various demographics, including students, civil servants, farmers, and fishermen.

Main Results:

• Haemoglobin C (Hb C) was entirely absent in the upland populations surveyed.
• Hb C variants (Hb AC and Hb SC) were detected exclusively in a fishing settlement population, with an incidence of 0.4% for Hb AC and 0.07% for Hb SC.

Conclusions:

• The findings suggest that the Hb C gene's presence in southeastern Nigeria is localized to specific coastal or fishing communities.
• The study provides insights into the potential introduction pathways of the Hb C gene into this region, likely through specific migration or trade routes associated with fishing settlements.