Hemoglobinopathies in the Hamilton region. I. A 4-year survey.

A regional laboratory for the diagnosis and investigation of hemoglobinopathies was established by the Hamilton District Program in Laboratory Medicine in October 1970. Specimens from patients suspected of having a hemoglobinopathy were referred to the regional laboratory from all the hospitals participating in the program. Between October 1970 and October 1974, 3547 specimens were screened for an abnormal hemoglobin and thalassemia; 758 cases of thalassemia, 165 cases of abnormal hemoglobin and 14 mixed cases were diagnosed. Before 1970, 110 cases of thalassemia and 12 cases of abnormal hemoglobin were on record in the Hamilton region. Regionalization of laboratory services provides a more effective means of screening for abnormalities in hemoglobin structure and synthesis and facilitates the opportunity for improving diagnostic procedures.