The most common genetic disorder in the United States is hemochromatosis. Hemochromatosis is a frequently asymptomatic disorder in which the body absorbs too much iron from food. It is estimated that 1.5 million Americans are affected by iron overload. Iron overload can result in iron accretion in the organs and joints. This can cause damage to the heart, liver and endocrine glands.

If a person inherits the gene for the disorder from one parent, then they may have a mild case of iron overload. However, if both parents pass along the gene the person will eventually suffer from iron overload. According to Dr. Victor Herbert, a professor of medicine and chief of the hematology research lab at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, twelve percent of Americans have inherited the gene from one parent; less than 1 percent have inherited it from both.

A healthy level of total-body iron is 3 grams for women and 10 grams for men, says Dr. Herbert. According to the American Liver Foundation, women tend to have lower iron levels than men because they regularly dislodge iron through menstruation as well as pregnancy and lactation.

Men can begin to experience symptoms of hemochromatosis in their twenties. Women usually experience symptoms with the start of menopause. Symptoms may include weakness, enlargement of the liver, arthritis and at times, diabetes.

Once excess iron has caused damage, it cannot be reversed. Hemochromatosis can be fatal, if left untreated. Therefore, early detection is essential. Screening for the disorder is not usually included in routine blood testing. If you have any symptoms you should request screening from your doctor.

REFERENCES:

1) Center for Disease Control (CDC) Guidelines for Hereditary Hemochromatosis
http://www.americanhs.org/ah00008.html
2) Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
http://www.mayohealth.org/mayo/9704/htm/hemochro.htm