WITHDRAWN: Distribution of Hemoglobinopathies among Premarital Couples in Al Majmaah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives:Hemoglobinopathies, are inherited diseases of Hemoglobin synthesis arising from mutations and/or deletions of one or more of the globin genes resulting in the production of abnormal Hemoglobin molecules and subsequently reduced synthesis of normal alpha and beta globin chains in Hemoglobin molecules. In this study, we attempt to assess the distribution of hemoglobinopathies in Saudi Premarital couples planning to marry and applying for a marriage license in Al Majmaah region and attending the premarital screening center of King Khaled General Hospital (KKGH), Al Majmaah, Saudi Arabia. Methods: In total, 4009 cases were screened for hemoglobinopathies by using the Bio-rad Variant II cation exchange-high-performance liquid chromatography (CE-HPLC) system. Results: Total number of abnormal hemoglobin fractions on cation exchange-HPLC (CEHPLC) was seen in 127 cases. Sickle cell trait was the predominant genetic hemoglobin disorder accounting for 66 cases of the total cases. This was followed by the Beta-thalassemia trait in 50 cases, sickle cell disease in 9 cases, HgbE diseasein 1 case, and HgbD trait in 1 case. Conclusion:The outcome of this study indicated that the Saudi population in this area is at low risk for hemoglobin disorders. sickle cell trait and β-thalassemia trait are the most common Hb disorders in Al Majmaah, Saudi Arabia.