Hematological and Biochemical status of Beta thalassemia in Pakistani and Afghani patients of Quetta city, Pakistan

Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder in which body is unable to synthesis hemoglobin characterized by chronic anemia. Improper erythropoiesis is the major problem in thalassemia. 50 Pakistani and 50 Afghani patients (male and female) from various public sector hospitals of Quetta city a year, were include in this study. Patients were divided into four groups (N=25 each group): Group-I: Included male and female Pakistani control individuals, Group-II Included male and female Pakistani thalassemia patients, Group-III included male and female Afghan control individuals, Group-IV included male and female Afghan thalassemia patients. BMI (Kg/m2) was recorded. 3-5 ml of blood was collected, serum was isolated and biochemical analysis for hematological parameters (Hb, MCV, MCH, MCHC, and PCV), renal function test (urea, creatinine) and liver function test (AST, ALT) were done. A significant reduction in the BMI (P<0.0001) was reported both in Pakistani and Afghani thalassemia patients as compared to normal individuals. Significant decrease was found for hematological parameters in thalassemia patients in both populations and in both genders. Serum AST, ALT, creatinine and urea was significant increase in both Pakistani and Afghani thalassemia patients as compare to control. The prevalence of thalassemia is more severe in Afghani patients as compare to Pakistani patients since in Afghanistan health facilities are very poor, inter tribe marriages are very common and lack of knowledge.