Hemoglobinopathies in the United Arab Emirates.
The use of modern DNA techniques enabled us to characterize and identify 44 distinct beta-thal mutations and nine alpha-thal genotypes in the UAE population. All of the beta-thal mutations were severe beta+ or beta0 types resulting in transfusion-dependent phenotypes. Furthermore, a large number of alphaT alleles in the alpha-thal carriers and in patients with Hb H disease, accentuate the importance of Hb H disease as a public health problem. The overall data presented here will be useful for genetic counseling, pre-marital carrier screening and the establishment of a comprehensive prenatal diagnosis program.
Baysal
E
E
Dubai Thalassemia and Genetic Center, United Arab Emirates. eabaysal@dohms.gov.ae
D000755:Anemia, Sickle Cell / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics; D003241:Consanguinity; D004641:Emigration and Immigration; D006453:Hemoglobinopathies / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D014479:United Arab Emirates / Q000453:epidemiology; D017085:alpha-Thalassemia / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics; D017086:beta-Thalassemia / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics