blood disorders
Hemochromatosis
Introduction
Hemochromatosis is a hereditary disorder that causes the body to absorb too much iron, causing iron to build up in the body and damage organs. In the United States, over 1 million people have hemochromatosis. Men are affected more often than women. The disorder is potentially fatal but is usually treatable. (See also Overview of Iron Overload .) People absorb Iron Deficiency from food they eat. Most of the iron is contained in red blood cells. Iron can accumulate in and damage any part of the body. People may develop liver disorders or diabetes or simply feel tired. Blood tests identify people who require genetic testing, which can confirm the disorder. Removing blood (phlebotomy), done periodically, can prevent further damage. 