Recently a candidate gene for hereditary hemo-chromatosis, HFE, was identified. The finding raises the possibility for genetic testing to provide earlier detection and more complete genotypic evaluation of hemochromatosis affected individuals. We determined the frequency of the HFE polymorphisms, C282Y and H63D, in a randomly selected multi-ethnic control population for establishment of a hemochromatosis genetic testing program. Prevalence was determined by PCR amplification and restriction enzyme digestion of HFE in 100 Caucasians, 100 Hispanics, and 56 African Americans. Heterozygosity for C282Y was detected in 8% of Caucasians, 3% of Hispanics, and 2% of African Americans. Homozygosity for C282Y was detected in 1% of Caucasians. Heterozygosity for H63D was detected in 24% of Caucasians, 15% Hispanics, and 3.5% of African Americans. Homozygosity for H63D was present in 4% of Caucasians and 1% of Hispanics. One Hispanic case was double heterozygous for C282Y and H63D. These results indicate the highest prevalence of C282Y and H63D in the Caucasian population. Additionally, we demonstrate C282Y and H63D polymorphisms in our Hispanic and African American populations, groups in which prevalence rates remain less defined. Our results support the need for thorough interpretation of genetic results for hereditary hemochromatosis in various ethnic populations.

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