Tests for the Prevention of Thalassemia Major in the Couples Referring to Behbahan Health Center, Iran During 2006-2016

Abstract

Background: Thalassemia is the most prevalent genetic disorder in humans. It is caused by the deficient or lack of production of one of the globin chains. The present study aimed to evaluate the performance indicators of Behbahan Health Center, Iran in terms of the prevention of thalassemia major during 2006-2016. Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on the couples referring to the pre-marriage counseling centers in Behbahan, Iran for premarital tests during 2006-2016. The participants were selected via census sampling. Results: In total, 24,992 couples were screened, 0.33% of whom (n = 84) were suspected of thalassemia. Out of 84 couples, two cases declared marriage cancellation after electrophoresis. The results of the PND1 test indicated that in 96% of the couples (n = 73), the boy and girl both had thalassemia minor, while in 1.3% of the cases (n = 1), one of them had thalassemia minor, and in 6.2% (n = 2), they were both normal. Conclusion: According to the results, 84 couples were carriers of thalassemia during 2006-2016. Eventually, all the cases with thalassemia major were aborted and prevented from birth.