The Impact of Iron Overload in Transfusion Dependent Beta Thalassemia Major Patients in Peshawar

Iron Overload in Transfusion Dependent Beta Thalassemia Major

Abstract

Background: Those patients experiencing transfusion as a result of thalassemia are highly prone to various clinical complications that are age and inherited as characteristics such as consanguinity. The purpose of the research was to determine demographic factors, family history, and clinical outcomes of 293 Pakistan-based patients.

Material and Method: The data about age, gender, consanguinity, family history, iron overload, organ specific complications, and chelation therapy were gathered and analyzed with the help of descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and chi-square tests.

Result: Male participants were the majority (58.7%), and the maximum number of them was in the age group of 6-10 (36.2%). The level of consanguinity was high (69.6%), and 51.9% had positive family history. The percentage of iron overload was 59.4% and the less prevalent heart disease (7.5%), liver disease (8.9%), kidney disease (3.1%), and lung disease (5.8). Paired analysis revealed the significant relations of age and consanguinity, heart disease, kidney disease, chelation therapy, and its complications (all p < 0.001), yet not blood units received (p = 0.252). Chi-square tests supported the existence of significant relationships among the key clinical parameters (Pearson x²= 19.415 p=0.002).

Conclusion: The outcomes of these findings indicate that age, consanguinity, and exposure to treatment interact to produce clinical outcomes. Screening at an early age, frequent follow up, optimal chelation therapy, preventive measures, and genetic counselling are essential towards minimizing morbidity and enhancing the treatment of transfusion-dependent patients in Pakistan.