A STUDY OF PREVALENCE OF HEMOGLOBIN E AND GLUCOSE 6-PHOSPHATE DEHYDROGENASE DEFICIENCY AMONG ETHNIC KARBI TRIBAL POPULATION IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE IN NORTH – EAST INDIA

Introduction: Hemoglobin E (HbE) disorders and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency are two important red cell genetic abnormalities highly prevalent in malaria-endemic regions of Southeast Asia. The Karbi tribe, one of the major ethnic groups of Northeast India, is considered to have a significant burden of these disorders; however, data on their prevalence remains limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Hb E disease, HbE trait, and G6PD deficiency among Karbi tribal individuals attending a tertiary care centre in Northeast India. Methods: A total of 600 Karbi tribal patients were enrolled in this cross-sectional study facility based study. Demographic details including age, gender, and sub-clan distribution were recorded. High performance liquid chromatography was done for Hemoglobin variant and G6PD by a semi-automated analyzer. Data were analyzed for prevalence patterns across age groups, gender, and sub-clans. Results: Hemoglobin E trait was found in 84 subjects (14%) and Hemoglobin E disease in 12 individuals (2%). G6PD deficiency was observed in 36 individuals (6.0%). Females showed a higher prevalence of HbE trait and disease, but the difference was statistically not significant. Males showed a statistically significant higher frequency of G6PD deficiency compared to females (4.33% vs 1.67%). Sub-clan analysis revealed Timung sub-clan had slightly higher distribution of HbE trait and G6PD deficiency. Coexistence of Hemoglobin E trait and G6PD deficiency was found in 6 individuals (1.0%). Conclusion: This study highlights a high prevalence of HbE trait and a considerable burden of G6PD deficiency in the Karbi population visiting the tertiary care center. The findings underline the importance of routine screening and genetic counseling in this community.