Which demographic is most commonly affected by Hereditary Spherocytosis?

Hereditary Spherocytosis is a genetic condition primarily affecting individuals of Northern European descent, making white people the most commonly affected demographic. The disorder is characterized by the production of abnormal red blood cells, which are more spherical than the typical biconcave shape, leading to their premature destruction in the spleen. This condition is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning only one copy of the altered gene from a parent can cause the disease.

While Hereditary Spherocytosis can occur in individuals of various ethnic backgrounds, studies and clinical observations show that the prevalence is significantly higher in those of Northern European ancestry. This genetic predisposition contributes to a higher incidence of the condition in this population compared to others. Therefore, understanding the demographic distribution of Hereditary Spherocytosis is essential for diagnosis and management, as it helps healthcare providers identify at-risk patients effectively.