Iron overload you can have too much of a good thing

A CAMPAIGN to reduce the numbers of people suffering unnecessarily from haemochromatosis has been launched by the Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar.

Known as the ‘Celtic Mutation’, Ireland has the highest levels of the condition in the world. Haemochromatosis is a genetic disorder where the body absorbs excessive iron from the diet and stores it in the body.

Anyone suffering from symptoms such as chronic fatigue, joint pain, diabetes, irregular heartbeat, enlarged liver and loss of sex drive should consult their GP to see if they have the condition.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Varadkar said: “Haemochromatosis is the most common hereditary disease in this country so it should be better known. Early diagnosis is key and a simple blood test to check a person’s iron status can identify iron overload.

“Early treatment can prevent organ damage and treatment can bring about some improvement. That’s why it’s so important to raise awareness of the condition and I really welcome this campaign.”

As the minister said, a simple blood test to check your iron status can confirm or rule out iron overload. The accumulated iron affects the liver, heart, pancreas, endocrine glands and joints, leading to impaired function of these organs and eventually to disease and organ failure.

As many as one in 83 Irish people are predisposed to iron overload while one in five are carriers of the gene. The treatment is simple and effective. It is known as venesection or phlebotomy, and it involves the removal of a unit of blood - similar to blood donation.

Haemochromatos National Awareness Day takes place tomorrow (Thursday, June 4) and there will be information stands in a number of shopping centres and hospitals throughout the country. The full list of venues can be viewed on www.haemochromatosis-ir.com. If you have any concerns about the condition, call the Irish Haemochromatosis Association support group on (01) 8735911.