[Screening for hemoglobinopathies at a knowledge center in Copenhagen. Resources should be allocated to solve a growing health problem in the Nordic countries].

Increased immigration to the nordic countries of people from areas in which hemoglobinopathies are common diseases has resulted in an increased frequency of individuals heterozygous for serious hemoglobin disorders such as beta-thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Thus, in Copenhagen County, about 4 per cent of the immigrants from these countries are carriers of one of these diseases. A center for hemoglobinopathies has been established in Copenhagen County, dealing with diagnostics, screening procedures, genetic counseling, prenatal diagnosis, education and treatment of various hemoglobin disorders. In collaboration with Rigshospitalet and the laboratory serving general practitioners, a screening program for pregnant women of relevant ethnic origin has been established, capable of servicing the entire Copenhagen area.