THOUSANDS of Scots are to be offered screening for a genetic disorder known as the ‘Celtic curse’.
More than 25,000 households across Aberdeenshire are to be contacted in a campaign to combat genetic haemochromatosis following the death of a local resident.
2
2
It is a condition in which the body stores too much iron and left untreated it can cause life-threatening complications including liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, diabetes and heart failure.
It is known as the ‘Celtic curse’ because it is particularly common in people of Scottish and Irish descent.
A three-month screening programme is being carried out in Aberdeenshire in memory of mum-of-three Miranda McHardy, from Banchory, Aberdeenshire, who died of the condition aged 59 in March last year.
The project is being undertaken by charity Haemochromatosis UK following a fundraising campaign by Mrs McHardy’s family.
Her sister Louisa Leader said: “My beloved sister Miranda McHardy died as a result of late diagnosis of Haemochromatosis.
“Her early and untimely death left behind three devastated children and her husband Julian, not to mention three siblings, nephews nieces and a close extended family.
“Miranda was one of life’s givers, constantly caring for everyone around her, she was a counsellor and was a volunteer Samaritan for many years.
“She has left a huge hole in our lives and we are all determined to try to raise awareness of this genetic condition.
“If Miranda had known what she had she would still be here now.
“She had chronic arthritis, type one diabetes, heart and liver damage all of which was completely preventable if she had known that she had hemochromatosis.
“This is why screening is absolutely crucial, early diagnosis will literally save lives and the NHS thousands of pounds treating the chronic conditions which result from iron overload.”
Households across Aberdeenshire will be contacted to offer a free genetic health check by post for the condition.
This will include information about the condition and its symptoms.
Genetic haemochromatosis is most common undiagnosed genetic condition in Scotland.
Recent research suggests that around 1 in 113 people in Scotland are pre-disposed to the condition, but fewer than 1 in 20 have been diagnosed.
Neil McClements, chief executive of Haemochromatosis UK, said: “We were inspired by Miranda’s family and friends’ determination to transform their loss into something positive for others.
“We are delighted to collaborate on this initiative.
“Miranda was dearly loved by many in her community and further afield.
Read more on the Scottish Sun
“We hope this is a fitting tribute to her memory through helping others to secure a life-transforming diagnosis for this treatable yet common genetic condition.”
People who do not live in the screening area can order a genetic haemochromatosis test via the charity’s website.