Genetic hemoglobin disorders and anemia in Cambodian women of reproductive age (389.7)

Abstract

Anemia is common in Cambodian women of reproductive age. Anemia can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes and other serious health consequences. Potential causes of anemia include micronutrient deficiencies, infection and disease. In Cambodia, genetic hemoglobin (Hb) disorders are common, leading to anemia and other complications.Objective: To examine associations between anemia (Hb <120g/L) and genetic Hb disorders in Cambodian women (18‐45 y).Methods: 450 women from Prey Veng province provided blood. A complete blood count was performed and the presence and typing of hemoglobin disorders was carried out by PCR and electrophoresis.Results: Overall, the prevalence of anemia in women was 33.1%, of which 61% was microcytic (Hb <120g/L and MCV <80fl). The prevalence of genetic hemoglobin disorders was over 55% (most commonly alpha‐thalassemia, Hb E and Hb CS) and were significantly correlated with anemia. Of women with anemia, over two‐thirds had an abnormal genetic hemoglobin type. Less than 5% of women had a low serum ferritin (< 15 µg/L).Conclusion: The majority of anemia in Cambodian women is microcytic anemia. A major predictor of anemia was genetic Hb disorders. Low serum ferritin was uncommon suggesting that iron deficiency is not a major problem. However, genetic Hb disorders may be confounding the interpretation of ferritin and leading to an underestimation of iron‐deficiency anemia. Other indicators of iron status and other micronutrients involved in anemia are being examined.Grant Funding Source: Supported by The International Development Research Centre and The Department of Foreign Affairs, Tr