Hemochromatosis

• Fact: Hemochromatosis can cause the body to absorb too much iron, a process that, if left untreated, can cause progressive harm to the heart, liver and pancreas.
• What you can do: If you have the condition, avoiding alcohol, iron-fortified foods and iron supplements are crucial steps for preventing damage.
• Did you know? Irregular menstrual cycles in women, and hair loss and loss of sex drive in either men or women, can be signs of hemochromatosis.

Hereditary hemochromatosis results from the interplay of common genetic factors with environmental, behavioral and dietary triggers. It interferes with the body’s ability to regulate iron levels, and can cause damage to internal organs.

Although many people have never heard of the condition, it is fairly common in the United States. An estimated 1 million Americans have it.

Having certain genetic variants, or risk markers, causes the condition. Your vulnerability to both genetic and lifestyle risks may vary depending on your ancestry, family history and gender.

Hemochromatosis is often a silent disease. Many people experience no symptoms until the condition has caused extensive organ damage. Others may notice vague signs such as fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of libido or arthritis.

Knowing from a genetic test whether you are at increased risk of developing hereditary hemochromatosis can alert you and your doctor to take action. Your doctor can order specialized blood tests to check for indications of iron overload. And you can help protect your organs from damage by avoiding alcohol, iron supplements, and even iron-fortified foods.