Prevalence of β-thalassemia in anemic children referred to City Medical Complex in Kabul City in 1401

Abstract

Introuction: β-thalassemia is caused by a defect in the synthesis of the β-chain of the hemoglobin molecule. Depending on the extent of the genetic aberration, there exist several classifications of β- thalassemia, namely β- thalassemia minor, intermediate, and major. Among these, β- thalassemia major represents the most severe manifestation of this disorder.

Materials and Methods: This descriptive investigation was carried out in a cross-sectional manner. The data pertaining to the research were obtained from the archived records of anemic children who were referred to City Medical Complex Hospital in Kabul city for HB-Electrophorisis test during the initial six months of 1401. The analysis of the data was performed utilizing descriptive statistics and the software SPSS version 22.

Results: The data presented in the study revealed that out of the total sample size of 216 children diagnosed with thalassemias, 37 individuals were identified as having β-thalassemias, accounting for approximately 17.6% of the cases. Further analysis of the β-thalassemia subgroup indicated that the majority of cases (66.7%) were classified as β-thalassemia major.

Discussion: In this investigation, it was discovered that 17.6% of children suffering from anemia were diagnosed with β-thalassemias. Among these cases, the majority were identified as thalassemia major. The prevalence of β-thalassemia major was found to be highest among children below the age of 6, as the symptoms of this condition typically manifest around 6 months of age and these children tend to survive until the age of 10. When considering electrophoresis parameters, β-thalassemia minor exhibited the highest occurrence. This can be attributed to the hereditary nature of the disease, which is passed down from parents. The carrier status is inherited, and in our society, which adheres to traditional family marriages, there is a lack of awareness and knowledge among families regarding this condition.