What is an Inherited inability to produce hemoglobin?

The inherited inability to produce hemoglobin is called thalassemia. Thalassemia is a group of inherited blood disorders that affect the production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. In thalassemia, the body produces less hemoglobin than normal, which can lead to anemia.

Thalassemia is caused by mutations in the genes that control the production of hemoglobin. These mutations can be inherited from either parent. The severity of thalassemia can vary, depending on the type of mutation and the number of genes that are affected.

Thalassemia is most common in people of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian descent. It is also found in people of African, Caribbean, and South Asian descent.

There are two main types of thalassemia:

* Alpha thalassemia is caused by mutations in the genes that control the production of alpha-globin chains. Alpha-globin chains are one of the two types of globin chains that make up hemoglobin.

* Beta thalassemia is caused by mutations in the genes that control the production of beta-globin chains. Beta-globin chains are the other type of globin chains that make up hemoglobin.

Thalassemia can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

* Anemia

* Fatigue

* Weakness

* Pale skin

* Shortness of breath

* Headaches

* Dizziness

* Lightheadedness

* Fast heart rate

* Enlarged spleen

* Jaundice

Thalassemia can be diagnosed with a blood test. Treatment for thalassemia depends on the severity of the condition. Treatment may include:

* Blood transfusions

* Iron therapy

* Bone marrow transplant

* Gene therapy

Thalassemia is a serious condition, but it can be managed with treatment. Most people with thalassemia are able to live full and active lives.