Thalesemia Minor

[Ginny953]

I have thalesemia minor as does my daughter, brother, mother (deceased), uncle, etc.  We have been told this is a blood disorder of mediterian descent but we are having a difficult time tracing our family tree to find out any information about where this disorder could have originated.  Also, my daughter has just married a man of italian descent who may have the same blood disorder, Any information you could give me would be appreciated.  Thanks--Ginny953

[portann]

Hi Ginny,

Thalassemia minor is common in certain regions, often humid ones. It's genetic, so you may want to check out the Genetics Forum on Medhelp.

It actually provides some immunity to malaria, thus serving a useful purpose.

You can google it to find out more and connect with the Genetics Forum. I believe it's not a serious condition, unlike sickle cell. Could be wrong, though.

This forum is geared to Hepatitis C.  Do you also have that?

All the best.

[AmeliaFufu]

Why does it matter where it originated?  This is just a question as if you knew would you be able to treat it differently?  Is it like HepC?  Do you treat it the same as HepC?  
Good Luck no matter what.
Ameliafufu