The Changing Epidemiology of Pediatric Hemoglobinopathy Patients in Northern Alberta, Canada

Background: Hemoglobinopathies are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Accurate epidemiologic data reflecting the number of hemoglobinopathy patients are lacking in Canada. Immigration patterns are shifting such that regions where these diseases were rare are seeing a rapid population expansion, revealing a gap in the health care system and the need for a public health response. Methods: To understand the epidemiology of pediatric hemoglobinopathy patients given the provincial population growth and immigration patterns, a retrospective chart review was conducted at the Stollery Children’s Hospital from January 2004 to July 2014. Results: A total of 88% of patients had sickle cell disease; 55% of patients were Canadian born and 63% of families originated from Africa. There was a 3.5-fold increase in patient numbers with acceleration in patient accrual over the study period and a delay in diagnosis in 70% of patients. There was a significant increase in the number of hospitalizations over the study period. Thirteen percent required at least 1 exchange transfusion, 16% received chronic transfusions, and 30% of patients developed at least 1 severe complication related to their diagnosis. Conclusions: It is imperative to demonstrate the growing hemoglobinopathy population and changing health care requirements to advocate for appropriate resources, educate health care providers, and increase awareness.