Cause 6: Chronic Blood Disorders
Chronic blood disorders such as thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes necessitate frequent blood transfusions, inadvertently increasing the risk of hemochromatosis. The iron from these transfusions accumulates over time, especially when the body’s natural iron-removal mechanisms are overwhelmed or inefficient.
Management of these chronic blood disorders becomes a twofold challenge, involving the control of the primary condition and the prevention of iron overload. Regular blood transfusions, while crucial for managing the blood disorder, necessitate a vigilant approach to monitoring and managing iron levels.
Therapeutic phlebotomy, chelation therapy, and adjustments in diet are integral to preventing hemochromatosis in individuals with chronic blood disorders. These interventions aim to remove excess iron from the body, maintain balanced iron levels, and mitigate the risk of iron-related complications.
Collaboration between hematologists, gastroenterologists, and nutritionists ensures a comprehensive management plan, tailored to the unique needs of individuals with chronic blood disorders. This interdisciplinary approach is key to navigating the complexities of these conditions and preventing hemochromatosis.(6)
