One in ten people in Northern Ireland are at risk of genetic haemochromatosis but most people have never heard of it even though it’s the most common genetic condition locally.
If left untreated, genetic haemochromatosis (iron overload) can lead to toxic iron overload, where the body is unable to process excess iron.
The condition can cause liver disease, cancer, heart disease, chronic fatigue, diabetes, severe joint pain, sexual health issues, dementia and mental health issues.
READ MORE: Childhood chickenpox vaccine: Who is eligible and the symptoms
READ MORE: Symptoms of new Covid strains as doctors warn people to ‘remain vigilant’
Research undertaken by patient charity Haemochromatosis UK has revealed that 78% of people locally had not heard of the condition.
Treatment is simple and effective – a form of regular blood donation. The blood can be donated via Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service (NIBTS) and used to help people suffering from other conditions.
Moira-based Sean McKegney, 56, was diagnosed by chance in Spring 2022 when he saw his GP about another health issue.
He said: “I mentioned to my GP that I had been having more and more aches and pains that could not all be attributed to old football injuries.
“He suggested a general blood test which showed that my iron levels, which were over ten-times higher than normal, at which point he suggested it might be genetic haemochromatosis, something I’d never heard of up to that point.”
This month, Haemochromatosis UK has launched a £300,000 multi-channel TV, press, billboard, radio and digital campaign to raise awareness of genetic haemochromatosis.
Genesis Advertising created and funded the campaign with the support of a range of media and production partners while Hagan Homes provided additional support to fund subsidised genetic testing kits.
The charity’s chief executive, Neil McClements said: “Early diagnosis saves lives – and every diagnosis starts with public awareness. This campaign is bringing people together to raise awareness of the symptoms of this common, but treatable, genetic condition.”
Sean has welcomed the charity’s awareness campaign and screening programme: “Genetic haemochromatosis was completely unknown to me or my family so I asked them to get checked out just in case but so far so good, no one else seems to have it.
“I’m at the start of my journey still awaiting some routine checks for my liver but so far the experience has been more an inconvenience, venesections every other week, rather than any real issue and am still learning about it.”
The awareness campaign is being supported by a postal home-based screening programme across Northern Ireland, delivered by Haemochromatosis UK. NI residents can order a subsidised health check kit online before 30th November here.
A home testing kit is then delivered and returned by post. Once the kit is returned, within two weeks, the charity will write with results to everyone tested and their NHS GP, with information about their personalised test results and what to do next.
For more information about genetic haemochromatosis, or support following a diagnosis, visit www.ironoverload.org.uk.
Join our Belfast Live breaking news service on WhatsApp
Click this link or scan the QR code to receive breaking news and top stories from Belfast Live. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
