[Screening for hemoglobinopathies in medical practice: audit of gynecologists, pediatricians and generalists in Brussels].

The haemoglobin disorders are frequent genetic diseases in tropical regions and in the mediterranean basin. They include thalassaemia and sickle cell disease. Because of important migrations of populations after the Second World War many big cities are confronted with the disease in West Europe nowadays. In Brussels where a neonatal screening has been organised in the majority of the maternity's, 45% of newborns have at least one parent originating from a region at risk for an haemoglobin disorder. One neonate among 2.000 is diagnosed with a major haemoglobinopathy at the screening. This rate is important and it appeared essential to evaluate the knowledge and need for complementary information among the doctors confronted with the disease. A survey was done in January 1999 and a questionnaire was sent to all gynaecologists, paediatricians and general practitioners in Brussels. The main results were a general self-evaluation of poor knowledge and a great need for complementary information. This survey was important to obtain adequate support of official health authorities in term of screening, prevention and financial aid to information campaigns. A consensus is needed among the different doctors for the best care possible of sick patients.