PREVALENCE OF THALASSEMIA AND CLINICODEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF THALASSEMIC PATIENTS IN NINEVEH PROVINCE

Background: Thalassemia is a common inherited hemoglobin disorder caused by mutations in the α- or β-globin genes, resulting in impaired globin chain synthesis and ineffective erythropoiesis. Aim: This study aimed to determine the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients with thalassemia in Nineveh Province, Iraq. A total of 604 patients with diagnosed thalassemia attending the Thalassemia Center were included. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study included 604 confirmed thalassemia patients (January–June 2025). Data were collected through patient interviews and hospital registry records to assess demographic and clinical characteristics and estimate prevalence and incidence rates. Results: The prevalence was 23 per 100,000 population, and the six-month incidence rate was 0.72 per 100,000 population. Females accounted for 51.32% of the study population, and 44.87% of patients were aged 10–20 years. β-thalassemia major was the predominant subtype (69.7%). Parental consanguinity was reported in 77.32% of cases. Iron chelation therapy was received by 88.41% of patients. The most common complications were splenomegaly and growth retardation. Conclusions: The prevalence of thalassemia was 23 per 100,000 population, with ongoing new cases. Thalassemia major was the predominant subtype, affecting mainly adolescents, with most patients requiring iron chelation therapy. High parental consanguinity and common complications, including splenomegaly and growth retardation, highlight the need for strengthened prevention and comprehensive disease management.