Reduced Frequency of Iron Deficiency Anaemia in Sickle Cell Trait

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Abstract
The prevalence and causes of anemia among the inhabitants of a southern Lebanese village were studied. Of the 317 patients examined, 75 (24%) were heterozygotes for Hb S. There was a reciprocal relation between the presence of sickle cell trait and of Fe-deficiency anemia. The prevalence of Fe-deficiency anemia, defined as the coexistence of Hb < 13 g/dl in adult males and < 12 in adult females and children with 2 laboratory indicators of Fe deficiency, was 10.3% in the normal population vs. 1.3% in the sickle cell trait group (P < 0.008). the reduced frequency of Fe-deficiency anemia in sickle cell trait may be explained by increased Fe absorption, or alternatively by reduced Fe requirements and a lower risk of discrepancy between Fe supply and demand. Because of the central role of Fe in the function of a great number of enzymes and proteins, it is possible that protection against Fe-deficiency anemia by the sickle cell trait may result in improved working capacity and a lower incidence of infections.