Osteoporosis in adult thalassemia major patients presenting at a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Background: Thalassemia, the most globally prevalent inherited hemoglobinopathy, poses significant health complications, including osteoporosis, which affects up to 50% of patients, regardless of gender. As lifelong transfusions remain a common treatment due to the risks associated with stem cell transplantation, this study seeks to provide updated insights to guide diagnosis, management, and future research.

Objective: To determine the magnitude of Osteoporosis in adult thalassemia major patients attending a tertiary care hospital of Peshawar.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Hematology, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, over six months from June 22, 2021, to December 22, 2021. All the included patients were subjected for bone mineral density test for the diagnosis of osteoporosis. Bone mineral density test was conducted by an expert radiologist. Osteoporosis was considered positive if the bone mineral density or T-score was less than -2.5.  Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22, with the Chi Square test employed for any association, and p≤0.05 considered significant.

Results: This study of 139 thalassemia patients revealed that average age was 27 years±1.88. About 48.9% (n=68) aged 18-25years and a male-to-female ratio of 1.4:1. Additionally, 44%(n=61) had diabetes mellitus, 37%(n=51) were obese, and 21%(n=29) had osteoporosis. Notably, osteoporosis prevalence was significantly associated with a positive family history of thalassemia (p=0.032), but no association was seen with age, gender, diabetes, or obesity.

Conclusion: According to the study's findings, 21% of thalassemia major patients who presented to tertiary care hospitals had osteoporosis. Nutritional support and deficiency prevention are essential to lowering the burden of issues and enhancing the quality and duration of life for TM patients.