The Danish Health Authorities recommend that all women who are at risk of being carriers of hemoglobin disorders are screened before pregnancy or as soon as possible once pregnant. The screening is highly recommended but fully optional.
About hemoglobin disorders
Hemoglobin disorders, also known as hemoglobinopathies, are the most common hereditary diseases worldwide. They affect the formation of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-binding part of the red blood cell, whose function is to transport oxygen throughout the body. Thalassemia and sickle cell anemia are examples of hemoglobin disorders.
Hemoglobin disorders are almost exclusively seen in individuals with ethnic origin in Africa (including Afro-Americans), the Caribbean, the Middle East, the Mediterranean, the Indian Subcontinent, South East Asia, and South America. Carriers of hemoglobin disorders have no symptoms of disease and are often unaware that their children are at risk of being born with severe disease. Children who inherit hemoglobin disorder genes from both their parents are often severely ill and in lifelong need of medical care.
Why are you offered screening?
The Danish Health Authorities recommend screening of all women with ethnic origin outside of Northern Europe in relation to pregnancy. This is due to the high frequency of hemoglobin disorders and the severe morbidity of children who inherit hemoglobin disorder genes from both parents.
What is the purpose of screening?
The purpose of the screening is first to determine if you are a carrier of a hemoglobin disorder. If this is the case, we recommend that the father of the child is also tested. If you are both carriers, you will be offered genetic counseling and prenatal testing (testing of the fetus), with regards to the prospects of the future and the possibility of termination of the pregnancy.
How do you screen for hemoglobin disorders?
Screening for hemoglobin disorders is done by a simple blood test taken by your general practitioner or at another blood test laboratory. The blood test needs to be is ordered in advance. Normally, this would be done by your general practitioner.
You can book an appointment for a bloodtest at www.blodproever.dk when the blood test is ordered.
Where do I find more information?
If need be, you can contact us at e-mail: hemoglobin.rigshospitalet@regionh.dk
In addition, data secure mail can be sent via: www.Borger.dk