Prevalence of Beta Thalassemia Trait Among Jenin Area-Palestine

Abstract

Thalassaemias are group of genetic disorders of haemoglobin synthesis, resulting from reduced rate of production of one or more of globin chains. It is prevalent in many countries and about 3% of the world population carries the gene. The study was conducted on 263 individuals belong to 10 different families in Jenin area in Palestine in the period Jan.2007 to Dec.2008. Adescriptive cros-sectional study was conducted to find out the distribution of beta Thalassaemia and other Hb variants in that families. Blood samples were subjected for Complete Blood Count (CBC), gel electrophoresis and ion exchange chromatography. The results were filed and subjected to SPSS for analysis. The study showed that beta Thalassaemia present in high percentages (elevated Hb-A2 and Hb-F) in Torokman (25%) and Aboalrob (23%) with overall percent of (15%). The study detecs sickle cell Hb (HbS) in Qalalweh(41%), Noairat(27%) and Aboalrob(14%) and does not present in Ziud, Daraghmeh, Jaradat and Torokman. The Hb concentration and other blood indices vary significantly among families. Also shows no correlation between color of eye, color of hair, type of hair and length of individuals and the concentration of Hb variants. The study also correlate between electrophoresis and chromatography with respect to Hb-A2 measurement. The study recommended that individuals belong to Torokman, Aboalrob, Qalalweh and Noairat should be subjected to haematological screen and advice to avoid carrier partners. Those individuals with reduced Hb, PCV, MCV and MCHC should be subjected to electrophoresis. The study also recommended giving the persons in the community information's about Thalassaemia and sickle cell anaemia. Further studies are recommended in other families in the area and Palestine.