Yes, it is quite possible that a woman with thalassemia would have a low
iron level, but thalassemia (which resembles sickle cell anemia) is
characterized by anemia that is *not* iron-deficiency anemia. Iron
deficiency can cause further problems for thalassemics; however, my
understanding is that thalassemics also have trouble "processing"
(metabolizing?) excess iron.
My pediatrician found that my thalassemic babies did very well when BF;
the iron level was just perfect. Problems only arose after weaning, when
iron deficiency compounded the syndrome.
Again, anecdotal evidence only, but which is consistent with the perfect
design of breastmilk.
I would love to have someone more knowledgeable than I explain the
effect iron levels have on thalassemia and sickle cell anemia.
Jo-Anne

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