Prevalence of hemoglobin S and beta-thalassemia in northern Jordan.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of HbS and beta-thalassemia in the Northern Jordan.

STUDY

DESIGN

The investigation targeted 3 areas of Northern Jordan. Blood samples from 2,290 volunteers were evaluated to determine the prevalence of HbS and beta-thalassemia by preparing a hemolysate for cellulose acetate electrophoresis. An additional 568 newborn samples were collected from the umbilical and analyzed for the presence of HbS using electrophoresis.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of HbS and beta-thalassemia was 4.45% and 5.93%, respectively. The incidence of sickle cell trait in the newborn sample was 3.17%. The prevalence of both HbS and beta-thalassemia was higher in the Al-Gor area in comparison to Ajloun and Irbid.

CONCLUSION

A better understanding of the demographics of these diseases has the potential to aid in the more efficient utilization of health care resources and improved planning and provision of health care services.