THE HIDDEN RISK | Worsening Anaemia Linked to Pregnancy in Individuals with β-Thalassaemia Minor
Pregnancy can bring many changes to the body, and for women with β-thalassaemia minor, one important concern is the possibility of worsening anaemia. A recent study published in Blood highlights how pregnancy may affect haemoglobin levels in these women, leading to a higher likelihood of requiring medical intervention.
β-thalassaemia minor is a genetic blood disorder that typically causes mild anaemia which typically does not require medical treatment. However, this study suggests that pregnant women with this condition may experience more significant drops in haemoglobin levels than previously thought. In some cases, this could lead to the need for treatments like blood transfusions.
Researchers analyzed data from 242 women and 347 pregnancies. They found that haemoglobin levels fell below 9 g/dL in different stages of pregnancy:
- Early pregnancy: 6.9% of cases
- Third trimester: 31% of cases
- At delivery: 7.4% of cases
- Postpartum: 60.1% of cases
(Mean hemoglobin levels were 10.5, 9.6, 10.5, and 8.7 g/dL at these respective stages.)
Compared to the general population, women with beta-thalassemia minor were more likely to require blood transfusions in 4% of cases during pregnancy and in 4.3% of cases around the time of delivery.
Additionally, 2% of patients received erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (medications that help the body produce red blood cells), but these did not seem to significantly improve haemoglobin levels.
One major concern is that anaemia in β-thalassaemia minor can sometimes be mistaken for iron deficiency anemia. This can lead to unnecessary or inappropriate iron supplementation. The study found that 46% of patients who received iron were given it unnecessarily, emphasizing the need for proper diagnosis and management.
Experts suggest that further research is needed to understand why haemoglobin levels drop during pregnancy in beta-thalassemia minor and how the body naturally corrects them. This knowledge may lead to new treatments that reduce the need for transfusions and improve pregnancy outcomes.
If you have concerns about anaemia during pregnancy, talk to your doctor to develop a personalized care plan that keeps both you and your baby healthy.
Source: Hematology Advisor
