SCREENING OF HEMOGLOBINOPATHIES IN COLLEGE-GOING FEMALES IN MANDSAUR DISTRICT, MADHYA PRADESH: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: This study aimed to screen hemoglobinopathies among college-going females aged 18–26 years in Mandsaur district, Madhya Pradesh, to evaluate the prevalence of haemoglobin disorders and explore the feasibility of incorporating screening and genetic counselling protocols to reduce the disease burden. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in November 2024 at a Government Girls College in Mandsaur. A total of 200 females were screened using Complete Blood Count (CBC) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for haemoglobin variants. Data were collected via a semi-structured questionnaire, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 26). Results: The mean hemoglobin level was 10.76 ± 1.66 g/dL, with 39% of participants having mild anemia and 58% moderate anemia. Hemoglobinopathies were identified in 8% of participants, with β-thalassemia minor being the most prevalent (6%), followed by HbS heterozygous (1%), and rare conditions such as Hemoglobin D (1%). Elevated HbA2 levels (≥4%) were consistent with β-thalassemia minor. Hemoglobin levels were significantly lower in participants with hemoglobinopathies compared to normal individuals (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights the significant prevalence of hemoglobinopathies, particularly β-thalassemia minor, among college-going females in the Mandsaur district. Systematic screening and genetic counselling are essential to reduce the hereditary transmission of these disorders.