[Prevalence of abnormal hemoglobins in newborns in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil].

Hemoglobinopathies are among the most prevalent hereditary diseases in humans. Studies in different areas of Brazil have identified the prevalence of S and C abnormal hemoglobins. The study analyzed 1,940 cord blood samples of newborns from maternity hospitals in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte State, to investigate the prevalence of abnormal hemoglobins. All samples were submitted to cellulose acetate electrophoresis using a Tris-EDTA-borate buffer at pH 8.5. Electrophoresis in agar gel pH 6.2 was performed on samples presenting abnormal hemoglobin. Some 37 (1.91%) of the newborns presented hemoglobinopathies, as follows: 29 (1.50%) sickle cell trait (Hb FAS), 6 (0.31%) heterozygous Hb C (Hb FAC), one (0.05%) homozygous Hb S (Hb FS), and one (0.05%) Hb Barts suggestive of alpha thalassemia. The results show the need to implement screening for hemoglobinopathies in the neonatal population.