[Neonatal screening for hemoglobinopathies in the Brussels region].
We realised this study in order to determine the frequency of abnormal haemoglobins and to appreciate the need for a neonatal screening for haemoglobinopathies in Brussels. Over a two year-period, 9575 cord blood samples were systematically screened. The study disclosed following results : 40% of newborns were from regions at risk for haemoglobinopathies and abnormal haemoglobins were present in 2.5% of the neonates tested. This frequency is similar to those reported elsewhere in North Europe. The most frequent abnormal haemoglobins were the Hb S, Bart's, C, D and E. Three cases of severe forms of sickle cell anaemia were identified. The frequency of abnormal haemoglobins and Hb S traits combined to the high rate of mixed marriages (16%) justifies the need for a universal screening for haemoglobinopathies in Brussels.
Tshilolo
L
L
C.H.U. Saint-Pierre, Bruxelles.
Gulbis
B
B
Barlow
P
P
Damis
E
E
Denis-Song
R
R
Ferster
A
A
Haumont
D
D
Vanderpas
J B
JB
Pardou
A
A
Schwers
J
J
Vokaer
A
A
Vertongen
F
F
D001530:Belgium / Q000453:epidemiology; D006453:Hemoglobinopathies / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D015997:Neonatal Screening; D012307:Risk Factors