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In parts of Northern Ireland, thousands of residents are now being invited to receive free screening for haemochromatosis, a genetic disorder often referred to as the Celtic Curse. This condition, which is most common among individuals of Irish and Scottish heritage, leads to an increased absorption of iron that can cause damage to various organs if not identified and treated early. Symptoms vary and may include persistent fatigue, joint discomfort, memory problems, abdominal pain, and skin changes. Without intervention, the disorder can result in serious long-term health issues.
Haemochromatosis UK, a charity dedicated to raising awareness and supporting affected individuals, is spearheading a campaign to reach up to 23,500 households across Irvinestown, Portadown, Ballymena, and Magherafelt, offering free genetic testing. Neil Irwin, who has lived with haemochromatosis for seven years and works with the charity, stresses the importance of early detection to access effective treatments. He notes, “In recent years we have had anecdotal evidence from areas like Mid Ulster where people have been contacting us saying their area seems to have high rates of haemochromatosis,” adding that official data is sparse and the screening initiative aims to fill these gaps.
Many individuals like Collette McKnight, a mother from rural County Down diagnosed in 2019, often overlook early signs of the disorder. She shares, “I would have had severe fatigue and pains, but I just would have put it down to being busy with the children and things like that. But then I started to develop heart palpitations and I knew something else was wrong.” Following her diagnosis, McKnight learned about haemochromatosis only after medical tests confirmed it. She now manages her condition through therapeutic blood removal, a treatment that lowers iron levels and alleviates symptoms such as joint pain and breathing difficulties.
The Celtic Curse derives from a gene mutation traced back to the Celtic populations of Europe. Genetic analysis of ancient remains, including a Bronze Age farmer from Rathlin Island and a Neolithic woman uncovered near Belfast, has revealed that variants associated with haemochromatosis have existed for thousands of years. To further increase public understanding, Haemochromatosis UK is launching a touring photographic exhibition titled “We are Overloaded,” featuring portraits by Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Cathal McNaughton. The exhibit opens at the Millennium Court in Portadown and highlights the personal stories of those living with the disorder, such as Gilford’s Finbar Polin, who was diagnosed during the pandemic
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