Hemoglobinopathies

Hemoglobinopathies: sickle cell disease and thalassemia

Hemoglobinopathies such as sickle cell disease and thalassemia are genetic diseases. They cause anemia of chronic disease secondary to the destruction of red blood cells. Many organs can be affected by the disease. Hemoglobinopathies are more common in people of non-European origin. Specialised blood tests are required to establish the diagnosis, and a long-term follow-up and treatment plan are necessary to prevent severe organ damage. People without symptoms can be the carrier of the genetic mutations and the children of two non-symptomatic people can also have the disease.