Hereditary Hemochromatosis

Hereditary hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that can cause severe liver disease and other health problems. Early diagnosis and treatment is critical to prevent complications from the disorder. If you have a family health history of hemochromatosis, talk to your doctor about testing for hereditary hemochromatosis.

What is hemochromatosis?

Hemochromatosis is a disorder in which the body can build up too much iron in the skin, heart, liver, pancreas, pituitary gland, and joints. Too much iron is toxic to the body and over time the high levels of iron can damage tissues and organs and lead to

Cirrhosis (liver damage),
Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer),
Heart problems,
Arthritis (joint pain), and
Diabetes.

In the United States, about 1 in 300 non-Hispanic whites has hereditary hemochromatosis, with lower rates among other races and ethnicities. Many people with hereditary hemochromatosis don’t know they have it. Early symptoms, such as feeling tired or weak, are common and can cause hemochromatosis to be confused with a variety of other diseases. Most people with hereditary hemochromatosis never develop symptoms or complications. Men are more likely to develop complications and often at an earlier age. An estimated 9% (about 1 in 10) of men with hereditary hemochromatosis will develop severe liver disease.