UK’s NHSBT to Begin Blood Group Genotyping Patients With Inherited Bleeding Disorders

The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) will introduce a world-first blood group genotyping program to reduce the risk of transfusion reactions and alloimmunization in patients with inherited bleeding disorders like sickle cell disease (SCD) and thalassemia. NHS England awarded NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) almost £1 million to provide the program in its specialized molecular diagnostics laboratory.

The genotyping program will support the development of a donor database that aims to better match blood for people with SCD and thalassemia, reducing the development of antibodies and leading to better care for patients.

People with SCD and thalassemia often require regular blood transfusions to avoid life-threatening health complications. Donors from similar genetic backgrounds are often the best match for these patients. However, side effects from frequent transfusions can increase the risk for transfusion reactions and potentially make it difficult to find well-matched blood for future transfusions. According to the NHSBT, 17% of people with SCD and 22% of people with thalassemia in England experience side effects after a transfusion due to inadequately matched blood.