Prevalence and hematological profile of β-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia in four communities of Surat city

BACKGROUND: From the data of transfusion-dependent thalassemia major cases, the 4 communities (Muslim, Dhodia Patel, Kachhiya Patel, and Modh Bania) with high prevalence but not studied methodically were selected. AIM: The aim of this study is to find prevalence of β-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia in 4 selected communities and also to evaluate hematological profile in them. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For screening of β-thalassemia trait (BTT) and sickle cell trait (SCT), all samples were tested for red cell indices, solubility, HbA(2) level and doubtful cases confirmed on HPLC. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Mean ± SD, χ(2) and ‘t’ tests were used to evaluate the significance. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Among 4 selected communities, the highest prevalence of BTT was observed in Modh Bania (6.2%) and Kachhiya Patel (6.05%) and that of SCT in Dhodia Patel (14.0%). Significantly higher prevalence of BTT was observed in Memon (P < 0.0001) and of SCT in Khalifa 6.6% (P < 0.0001) compared to other Muslim sub castes. Anemia was more prevalent in BTT compared to non-BTT and non-SCT subjects. 80% of Dhodia Patel non-BTT and non-SCT subjects showed microcytic red cell morphology. Their Mean ± SD Hb concentration was 12.1 ± 1.73, hence iron deficiency cannot be a sole reason. This community needs α-thalassemia and iron studies.