“Celtic curse” hotspots found in Scotland and Ireland with 1 in 54 at risk

 “Celtic curse” hotspots found in Scotland and Ireland with 1 in 54 at risk

Researchers have mapped the genetic risk of hemochromatosis across the UK and Ireland for the first time, uncovering striking hotspots in north-west Ireland and the Outer Hebrides. In some regions, around one in 60 people carry the high-risk gene variant linked to iron overload. The condition can take decades to surface but may lead to liver cancer and arthritis if untreated.
Genetic mapping reveals Celtic “iron overload” hotspots—prompting calls for life-saving community screening. Credit: AI/ScienceDaily.com

People with roots in the Outer Hebrides and north west Ireland face the highest known risk of developing hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes the body to absorb and store too much iron. Over time, that excess iron can build up to dangerous levels.
This is the first time researchers have mapped genetic risk for hemochromatosis, sometimes called the 'Celtic curse', across the UK and Ireland. The condition has long been known to affect Scottish and Irish populations at higher rates, but until now its geographic distribution had not been clearly charted.


International Research Awards

Nomination link: https://researchawards.net/award-nomination-ecategoryawardsrcategoryawardee/?ecategory=Awards&rcategory=Awardee

Visit Our Website: researchawards.net
Contact Us: info@researchawards.net