[Genetic carrier screening for hemoglobinopathies: the situation in the Netherlands compared with England]

In the Netherlands, in contrast to England, no screening for carriership of haemoglobinopathy (sickle-cell anaemia and thalassaemia) is being carried out. The absolute prevalence is low, but the prevalence in proportion to birth figures is approximately the same in the two countries. The lack of knowledge of the professional groups involved can be rectified by adequate instruction. The question whether screening should be carried out before pregnancy or early prenatally proved not difficult to solve in England. Screening for carriership is technically possible and in England it is also cost-effective. This screening should be performed in the Netherlands, as well.