Hemoglobinopathies are frequent hereditary diseases in Brazilian population and have been a public health problem. This study reports the screening of abnormal hemoglobin among Fiocruz`s employees, as well as the impact of exposure to some factors such as, chemical substances, radiation, excessive cold or heat in sickle cell trait carriers. This impact has been analyzed by measuring methehemoglobin level and the presence of Heinz bodies. The samples were obtained from 2190 (4,7%) individuals presented abnormal hemoglobin. Hemoglobin S was found in 72,3% of individuals with abnormal hemoglobin constituting the most prevalent. The results distribution were: sickle cell trait in 3,2% and associated with thalassemia in 0,2%; thalassemia in 0,7%; AC hemoglobin in 0,4%; thalassemia minor in 0,3% and finally SS and D hemoglobin in 0,05%. Sickle cell trait carriers employees had a 14 times higher risk of increased methehemoglobin increase levels.
Hemoglobinopathies; occupational hazards; methe-hemoglobin; sickle cell trait
