International Journal on Science and Technology

E-ISSN: 2229-7677     Impact Factor: 9.88

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 16 Issue 3 July-September 2025 Submit your research before last 3 days of September to publish your research paper in the issue of July-September.

Hemoglobinopathies Amongst Antenatal Women in a Tertiary Care Centre, IGMC Shimla – A Cross Sectional Study

Author(s) Dr. Umesh Kumar, Dr. Pooja Murgai, Ms. Anisha Anisha
Country India
Abstract Hemoglobinopathies are among the most common inherited disorders globally. In India, thalassemia and sickle cell disorders are prevalent and pose serious maternal and fetal health risks during pregnancy.

Objective: To determine the prevalence and hematological profiles of hemoglobinopathies among antenatal women attending a tertiary care hospital in Himachal Pradesh.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2024 to April 2025 at IGMC Shimla, including 1085 antenatal women. Hematological indices were evaluated using a 5-part hematology analyzer. Women with anemia or microcytic indices were further assessed using HPLC. CBC, reticulocyte count, iron profile, Vitamin B12, and folic acid levels were evaluated.

Results: Hemoglobinopathies were diagnosed in 24 women (2.2%): 22 had β-thalassemia trait (2.1%), one had sickle cell trait (0.1%), and one had a suspected β-chain variant (0.1%). Mean hemoglobin in BTT cases was 10.0 g/dL. All BTT cases showed low MCV and MCH. Mentzer's Index showed a sensitivity of 77.2% and specificity of 98.3% for detecting BTT. Coexistent iron deficiency was seen in two BTT cases. No cases of HbE, HbD-Punjab, or other variants were found.

Conclusion: Hemoglobinopathies, especially β-thalassemia trait, are prevalent among antenatal women in Himachal Pradesh. Early antenatal screening using HPLC is crucial for timely diagnosis, genetic counseling, and prevention of severe hemoglobinopathies.
Keywords Hemoglobinopathies, Antenatal Women, β-Thalassemia Trait, HPLC, Himachal Pradesh
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 16, Issue 3, July-September 2025
Published On 2025-08-05
DOI https://doi.org/10.71097/IJSAT.v16.i3.7569
Short DOI https://doi.org/g9wh7r

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