Hidden burdens: The dual burden of subclinical iron deficiency and hemoglobinopathies in afro-descendant populations of Colombia's Pacific coast: A public health concern.

BACKGROUND: Iron deficiency and hemoglobinopathies significantly impact public health, affecting morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. Their prevalence and consequences vary across populations, with Afro-descendant communities being of particular interest due to unique genetic, socioeconomic, and cultural factors. Subclinical iron deficiency, may go unnoticed in these populations, contributing to adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to determine the presence of iron deficiency, anemia, and hemoglobinopathies in Afro-descendant Populations of Colombia's Pacific coast. DESIGN AND METHODS: This descriptive, cross-sectional study included 198 Afro-descendant adults, both men and women, recruited through convenience sampling from various healthcare centers in the Pacific region. All participants provided written informed consent prior to enrollment. Blood samples were analyzed for total hemoglobin, ferritin levels, and hemoglobin variants. RESULTS: Only 18.1% of participants reported a previous anemia diagnosis. Low hemoglobin was found in 23.2% of participants, ferritin deficiency in 49%, and 33.8% presented subclinical iron deficiency (low ferritin with normal Hb). Hemoglobin variants were identified in 17% of participants: Hb AS 4.5%, Hb AC 3%, and HbSS 0.5%. Hemoglobin variants were significantly associated with low hemoglobin (OR = 10.6; 95% CI: 4.7-24.4; p < 0.001), as were low ferritin levels (OR = 2.32; 95% CI: 1.17 - 4.50; p = 0.01). CONCLUSION: The high frequency of subclinical iron deficiency, anemia, and hemoglobinopathies in this population highlights the urgent need for strategies focusing on prevention, early diagnosis, genetic counseling, and comprehensive health management in Afro-descendant populations.