The haemoglobinopthies are a group of genetic blood disorders in which either the structure (sickle cell disorders) or the quantity (thalassaemias) of haemoglobin produced is affected.

Sickle cell disorder (SCD) and beta thalassaemia major are two of the most common haemoglobinopathies.

These disorders are inherited and vary greatly according to the type of disorder and the severity of the symptoms.  Sickle cell disorders affect, to a disproportionate extent, people of African and African Caribbean origin, although they may also affect people from the Eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East and India.  Thalassaemia mainly affects people from the Eastern Mediterranean, Asia, the Middle East and the  Far East.

For advice contact sickle.cell@cardiffandvale.wales.nhs.uk