Genetic mutations of the genes are common worldwide. In Asia and particularly
Southeast Asia, they can result in clinically significant types of -thalassemia, namely
hemoglobin (Hb) H disease and Hb Bart’s hydrops fetalis. The latter is generally a fatal
intrauterine condition, while Hb H disease results in clinical complications that are
frequently overlooked. The high prevalence of the carrier state and the burden of these
diseases (and other -thalassemia variants) call for more attention for improved
screening methods and better care