NOTE: This test is ONLY AVAILABLE TO AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS.
Haemochromatosis is the most common genetic disorder, affecting about one in every 200 Australians of European origin. It causes the body to absorb too much iron resulting in iron overload.
The excess iron is stored in your organs, especially the liver, heart and pancreas. There are other causes of iron overload including frequent blood transfusions for the treatment of thalassaemia and some haemolytic diseases.
Iron is absorbed from the diet through the small intestine and the amount absorbed is determined by the body’s needs. People with hereditary haemochromatosis (HH) absorb more iron than their body needs. As the body does not have a way to increase excretion of the excess iron there is a progressive build-up of the excess iron in tissues and organs. The symptoms of hereditary haemochromatosis occur in adulthood.
Common conditions associated with Haemochromatosis
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Liver cirrhosis
- Anxiety
- Loss of libido
- Heart failure
What is tested?
The test looks for the following indicators:
Hereditary Haemochromatosis gene mutations HFE C282Y & H63D
How To Take The Haemochromatosis Test
The haemochromatosis test can be done right near your home or office. The test kits includes:
- An authorized blood specimen order form that you take to your local accredited pathology for collection of your blood (Find a pathology near you here).
- A blood specimen test kit for the pathology to use to collect your blood sample
- Complete instructions for taking the test for you and the pathology
Test results are sent to one of our professional health practitioners within 14 business days for evaluation. Our practitioners contact you with the results and recommendations on any findings via email, mail or phone.
