Which demographic is at the highest risk for developing beta-thalassemia?

Beta-thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that primarily affects hemoglobin production, and it is particularly prevalent in certain geographic and ethnic populations due to historical patterns of malaria. Individuals of Mediterranean descent have a higher frequency of the beta-thalassemia trait, primarily due to the protective advantage that the trait offers against malaria. This is a result of a complex co-evolution of the disease and the malaria parasite in regions where malaria is endemic, such as parts of Italy, Greece, and surrounding Mediterranean countries.

The elevated prevalence among children of Mediterranean descent can be traced back to the migration patterns and the genetic factors influencing population health. Beta-thalassemia displays an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern, meaning that both parents must carry the trait for a child to manifest the disease. As such, populations in the Mediterranean basin show higher carrier rates, leading to increased incidence in offspring.

In contrast, while beta-thalassemia can occur in other ethnic groups, such as those of African, Asian, or Caucasian descent, the genetic prevalence and historical contextual factors are less pronounced compared to Mediterranean populations. Hence, children of Mediterranean descent are correctly identified as being at the highest risk for developing beta-thalassemia.