Beta-Thalassaemia

Beta-thalassaemia minor was the second most common condition measured after sickle cell trait. Individuals with beta-thalassaemia major had the highest haemoglobin and serum iron levels, especially among males. Haemoglobin levels in beta-thalassaemia major require cautious interpretation because transfusion timing was not documented. Unsaturated iron-binding capacity may be unreliable for assessing total body iron stores in transfusion-dependent beta-thalassaemia. Higher serum iron in beta-thalassaemia major may reflect transfusion-related effects and iron overload. Beta-thalassaemia major was less common but clinically important because of links to anaemia, survival disadvantage, and healthcare needs.