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ABSTRACT
Hemoglobin variants are genetic alterations that can affect the structure and function of hemoglobin, potentially leading to various hematological changes. Understanding the prevalence of these variants and their impact on hematological parameters among university students can provide valuable insights into the health status of this population. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of hemoglobin variants and associated hematological changes among undergraduate students at the University of Benin, Nigeria. A total of Two Hundred and sixty [260] participants were recruited through systematic random sampling among the halls resisdence. Approximately 5mililiters (5mls) of blood was collected from the cubital fossa and was dispensed into an ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid container for the full blood count using the XP-300 haematological autoanalyzer. The genotype was determined using the haemoglobin electrophoresis chamber. Data obtained was analysed by the statistical package for social scientists (SPSS) version 26.0. Socio-demographic findings revealed a higher percentage of females (78.85%) compared to males (21.15%), with the majority aged between 21-25 years (60.00%). The Bini tribe constituted the largest ethnic group (51.54%), predominantly Christian (92.69%), and single (98.85%). In terms of academic status, most students were in their second year (42.69%) and resided primarily in Hall 2 (31.92%). Lifestyle and clinical characteristics showed that the majority had no pre-existing medical conditions (96.92%) and experienced malaria regularly (61.92%). Moreover, a significant proportion did not smoke (93.46%), consumed alcohol occasionally (30.77%), and engaged in regular physical activity (29.62%). Hemoglobin variants revealed the highest frequency of the AA genotype (78.08%), followed by AS (20.00%) and SS (1.92%). Hematocrit levels showed significant differences between genders across genotypes, with varying significance observed in hemoglobin concentration and red blood cell count of AA (p Value of PCV = 0.0001; RBC Count = 0.1921; Hemoglobin conc. = 0.0001; WBC Count = 0.9159), for AS (p Value of PCV = 0.0001; RBC count = 0.6590; Hemoglobin count = 0.0001; WBC count = 0.9442), and for SS (p Value of PCV = 0.4136; RBC count = 0.6795; Hemoglobin conc. = 0.0001; WBC count = 0.5493). These findings contributed to our understanding of the haematological characteristics of individuals with sickle cell disease and highlight the importance of considering gender as a factor in clinical management strategies. Some key recommendations are also provided in this study like; Health Education and Awareness Programs, Genetic Counseling Services, Regular Health Screenings, Nutritional Support, Access to Healthcare Services, Psychosocial Support and Research and Collaboration.
