Common genetic disorder has serious disease risk

THE WESTERN world’s most common genetic disorder causes far higher levels of serious disease and disability than previously thought.

Two research studies have revealed that the iron overload condition haemochromatosis quadruples the risk of liver disease and doubles the risk of arthritis and frailty in elderly people. It also causes higher risk of diabetes and chronic pain.

Around 250,000 people of European ancestry in the UK have the disease, caused by two faulty genes.

Research found that the number of deaths from liver cancer in men with the faulty genes was significantly higher than expected, although the overall number of deaths was small.

The research, led by the universities of Exeter and Connecticut, suggests that routine screening may be needed for people at risk of haemochromatosis.

The condition causes people to absorb too much iron, which accumulates around the body over time, damaging organs and eventually causing disease.

Symptoms include tiredness, muscle weakness and joint pain, meaning it is often misdiagnosed as the signs of ageing.

The researchers found that in men, 1.6 per cent of hip replacements and 5.8 per cent of liver cancers occurred in those with the two gene mutations.

Long-distance runner Ruth Jones, 38, underwent nine months of tests after suffering from aches and pains before she was diagnosed.

Mrs Jones, of Stamford, Lincolnshire, said: “There just isn’t enough knowledge about the condition in the medical profession. I had to suggest that my doctor should consider it as an option.”

New father Andy McLennan, 42, of Glasgow, was told to avoid certain iron-rich foods and alcohol after learning he had haemochromatosis. He said: “I like nothing more than a steak, pint of Guinness or glass of red wine, but health came first and I immediately ceased drinking.”