Donegal Information Evening on Haemochromatosis or ‘iron overload’

The Irish Haemochromatosis Association is organising a free patient information evening with Dr Paul Grant, for patients, family members and members of the public who are interested in finding out more about haemochromatosis.

The event will take place on Wednesday, November 6, at 7pm at The Clanree Hotel, Letterkenny. This is a free, in-person meeting and everyone is welcome to attend. Dr Paul Grant is a local GP based in Letterkenny and will deliver a talk and presentation on haemochromatosis, followed by a Question & Answer session where there will be lots of opportunities to ask questions on the night.

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Haemochromatosis is more common in Ireland than anywhere else in the world, as one in five people carry one copy of the gene and one in every 83 Irish people carry two copies of the gene, predisposing them to develop iron overload. Haemochromatosis, also known as ‘iron overload’, is Ireland’s most common genetic disorder.

Early diagnosis is vital and if left untreated, can lead to organ damage or even premature death. The Irish Haemochromatosis Association estimates there are at least 20,000 undiagnosed cases of Haemochromatosis in Ireland. Some of the symptoms of haemochromatosis can range from chronic tiredness and joint pain, to abdominal pain and irregular heart beat.

The Irish Haemochromatosis Association was established over 25 years ago and is the only registered charity and organisation representing and supporting haemochromatosis patients in Ireland. Volunteers and Ambassadors such as Mark Cagney, former RTE Presenter, Paul Harrington, musician, songwriter and former Eurovision songwriter winner (who both have haemochromatosis) and many well-known athletes and sportspeople have promoted awareness of the disorder over many years. For more information on the event, email miriam@haemochromatosis.ie

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