Prevalence of B-Thalassemia Trait among Individuals Undergoing Premarital Screening in Anbar Province

Abstract

Background: β-thalassemia is a significant hereditary haematological disorder with a high prevalence in Iraq. Premarital screening is a critical preventive strategy for identifying couples at risk of having children with thalassemia major. This is the first study conducted in Anbar Province to evaluate the premarital screening programme. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of β-thalassemia minor among individuals undergoing premarital investigations. Material and Method: A retrospective record-based study was conducted among individuals undergoing premarital investigations at the premarital screening centres of the Anbar Health Directorate during 2025. Blood samples from each individual were analysed using a complete blood count (CBC), including haemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH). Haemoglobin electrophoresis and quantification of HbA2 were also performed. Additional data included sex and place of residence. Result: The prevalence of β-thalassemia trait was 0.82% among all screened individuals across Anbar centres. No statistically significant sex difference was observed. The highest number of cases was reported in Ramadi, whereas no positive cases were reported in Heet. Conclusion: A low prevalence of β-thalassemia trait was observed among individuals undergoing premarital screening in Anbar Province. Annual surveillance is recommended. Further studies comparing the prevalence of β-thalassemia major before and after implementation of the national screening programme may help evaluate the programme's long-term preventive impact.