Alpha-Thalassemia
Definition
Alpha-thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by reduced or absent production of alpha-globin chains, leading to a deficiency of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood. This results in anemia, fatigue, and other complications. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner and is more prevalent in individuals of Middle Eastern, African, Southern Chinese, and Southeast Asian descent.