A haemoglobin genotype refers to the specific genetic makeup of an individual’s haemoglobin, determined by the combination of alleles inherited from both parents. It influences how efficiently oxygen is transported in your blood.
The most common haemoglobin genotypes are AA, AS, SS, AC, and SC.
Knowing your haemoglobin genotype is important for understanding potential health risks, making informed decisions about family planning, and managing conditions like sickle cell disease if you have a high-risk genotype.
Your haemoglobin genotype can be determined through a simple blood test. This is done as part of your medical registration screening. You can check the information on your clinic card (pink card) for your genotype.
If you have an AA genotype, you have normal haemoglobin, and there is no risk of sickle cell disease. You can have children with any genotype without risk of sickle cell disease.
The AS genotype means you carry one normal haemoglobin gene and one sickle cell gene. You are generally healthy but can pass the sickle cell gene to your offspring.
Having an SS genotype means you have sickle cell disease, a condition where your red blood cells can become misshapen, leading to health complications such as pain crises, anaemia, and organ damage. Learn how to live with sickle cell disease here.
If you have the SC genotype, you may experience symptoms similar to sickle cell disease, though often milder. Regular medical care and lifestyle adjustments are important to manage your health.
No, your haemoglobin genotype is determined by your genes and remains the same throughout your life.
Yes, but there is a 25% chance with each pregnancy that their child could have sickle cell disease (SS), a 50% chance that the child will be AS like the parents, and a 25% chance the child will be AA (normal). Hence, it is not recommended they have children together.
While there is no universal cure for sickle cell disease, treatments such as medication, blood transfusions, and in some cases, bone marrow transplants can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Individuals with SS or SC genotypes should stay hydrated, avoid extreme temperatures, and seek regular medical care to manage their condition and prevent complications. Learn more on how to live with sickle cell disease here.
Raising awareness about haemoglobin genotype helps prevent the spread of genetic disorders like sickle cell disease, promotes informed health decisions, and contributes to healthier communities.
As students of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), it is crucial to be well-informed about your haemoglobin genotype, not only for personal health reasons but also to contribute to informed decision-making in matters of family planning and relationships.
Haemoglobin
Haemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and returning carbon dioxide to the lungs to be exhaled.
The haemoglobin molecule consists of four protein subunits, each containing an iron atom that binds to oxygen.
This function is vital for the survival of cells and tissues in the human body.
Haemoglobin Genotype
Haemoglobin genotype refers to the specific genetic makeup of an individual’s haemoglobin.
It is determined by the combination of alleles inherited from both parents.
These genotypes determine the structure of the haemoglobin in your red blood cells, influencing how efficiently oxygen is transported throughout your body.
The most common haemoglobin genotypes are:
- AA: Individuals with this genotype have haemoglobin that functions effectively in transporting oxygen without any associated health risks.
- AS: This genotype is indicative of being a carrier of the sickle cell trait. People with AS genotype typically do not exhibit symptoms of sickle cell disease but can pass the sickle cell gene to their offspring.
- SS: This genotype is associated with sickle cell disease (SCD). Individuals with the SS genotype have haemoglobin that causes red blood cells to become rigid and shaped like a crescent or sickle, leading to various health complications.
- AC: The AC genotype is less common and involves the presence of abnormal haemoglobin known as haemoglobin C. Individuals with the AC genotype are usually healthy but, like those with AS, can pass the abnormal gene to their children.
- SC: This genotype results from the inheritance of one sickle cell gene (S) and on haemoglobin in the C gene (C). Individuals with the SC genotype may experience similar symptoms to those with sickle cell disease, although often milder.
Importance of Knowing Your Genotype
Understanding haemoglobin genotype is of paramount importance for several reasons:
- Health Awareness: Knowing your genotype can help you understand any potential health risks. For instance, individuals with the SS or SC genotype are at risk for sickle cell disease, which can lead to complications such as anaemia, pain episodes (crises), and organ damage.
- Family Planning: For students considering marriage or long-term relationships, it is crucial to be aware of your genotype. If both partners carry the AS or AC genotype, there is a risk of having a child with sickle cell disease. Genetic counselling is recommended in such cases to discuss potential risks and options.
- Early Intervention and Management: For individuals with genotypes associated with sickle cell disease, early diagnosis and management can significantly improve quality of life. Regular medical check-ups, proper hydration, and avoiding extreme temperatures are some of the steps that can be taken to manage the condition.
- Educational and Career Considerations: Some careers, especially in the military or other physically demanding professions, may require knowledge of your genotype due to the potential impact of conditions like sickle cell disease on physical performance.
How to Determine Your Hemoglobin Genotype
Determining your hemoglobin genotype is a straightforward process that involves a blood test.
This test is done as part of the medical registration screening for every student of the institution.
It can also be done at any certified medical laboratory.
It is highly recommended that all students undergo this test, especially if they have not done so previously.
Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder that primarily affects individuals with the SS genotype.
It causes red blood cells to become misshapen, leading to blockages in blood flow and resulting in severe pain, organ damage, and increased risk of infections.
Understanding the challenges associated with sickle cell disease is essential for students, particularly those with the SS or SC genotype.
Awareness can lead to better self-care, timely medical intervention, and a supportive environment both within the university and beyond.
