Pancreatic Assessment in Beta Thalassemia Syndrome Patients of KPK

Background: Beta thalassemia is a hereditary hemoglobinopathy marked by ineffective erythropoiesis and progressive iron overload from early life. Iron deposition in the pancreas can impair both endocrine and exocrine function, increasing the risk of diabetes mellitus and pancreatic dysfunction. Regular pancreatic evaluation is essential to improve patient outcomes. This study assessed pancreatic function in beta thalassemia patients of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan, and explored its association with transfusion frequency and iron overload. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Hematology, Burns & Plastic Surgery Center, Hayatabad Peshawar, from January to December 2020. A total of 200 patients with beta thalassemia were evaluated. Clinical data included age, transfusion frequency, and serum ferritin levels. Laboratory investigations comprised fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and pancreatic enzymes (amylase and lipase). Data were analyzed using SPSS, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of patients was 16.5 ± 4.2 years. Ferritin levels >2500 ng/mL were significantly associated with impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes mellitus (p = 0.003). About 40% of patients had reduced amylase and lipase levels, suggesting exocrine pancreatic dysfunction. Patients receiving more than 12 transfusions per year demonstrated a higher prevalence of pancreatic dysfunction (p = 0.021). The findings indicate a direct effect of iron overload on pancreatic health. Conclusion: Pancreatic dysfunction is common among beta thalassemia patients in KP due to iron accumulation. Routine screening for endocrine and exocrine insufficiency and optimized chelation therapy are essential to prevent long-term complications.