Ireland's 'Celtic Gene' Puts 20,000 at Risk as Cork Joins National Awareness Drive

Cork City Hall and Cork County Hall will light up red this week as part of a nationwide campaign to tackle Ireland's most common genetic disorder, with an estimated 20,000 people across the country living undiagnosed with haemochromatosis.

The condition, known as the 'Celtic Gene' due to Ireland having the highest rates globally, affects one in 83 people and sees one in five carrying the gene. Despite its prevalence, haemochromatosis remains one of the least recognised genetic conditions in Ireland, prompting the Irish Haemochromatosis Association (IHA) to launch a major awareness drive during World Haemochromatosis Awareness Week from 1st to 7th June 2025.

Haemochromatosis is a genetic disorder where large amounts of iron are absorbed from the diet into vital organs, causing 'iron overload'. Symptoms can range from chronic tiredness and joint pain to abdominal pain, irregular heartbeat and liver problems. Without early diagnosis and treatment, the condition can lead to serious organ damage or premature death.

The IHA has partnered with Meath GAA star and 2023 Tailteann Cup Footballer of the Year, Mathew Costello, for this year's campaign. Mathew Costello said:

"I know how important it is to stay on top of your health, both on and off the field. While it's not something I've personally encountered, the more I learn about it, the more I realise how crucial early detection is. It's about staying ahead of the game - catching things early can save your life. Health is everything, and we all need to take care of it."

GAA All-Star David Beggy, who lives with haemochromatosis and recently became Chair of the Irish Haemochromatosis Association, emphasised the condition's manageability when caught early. David Beggy explained:

"As someone living with the condition, I can personally vouch for how manageable it is when caught early and treated and it no longer troubles me. One in five people carry the gene, and one in 83 are at risk of developing it. If you recognise any of the symptoms from this campaign, don't wait - please seek medical advice."

Professor John Ryan, Consultant Hepatologist at Beaumont Hospital, stressed the importance of early intervention:

"Early diagnosis of haemochromatosis is crucial, as it allows for the prevention of serious complications. When diagnosed early, treatment can effectively manage the condition."

Professor Suzanne Norris, Consultant in Hepatology and Gastroenterology at St. James's Hospital, highlighted a positive aspect of treatment:

"If Haemochromatosis is identified at an early stage, it is easily treatable through venesection. Since 2019, many patients can also donate blood through the Irish Blood Transfusion Service, where their blood is desperately needed. So finding people with Haemochromatosis and allowing them to donate blood is a win-win situation."

Cork joins cities and counties across Ireland in supporting the international 'Light Up Red' initiative this week. Alongside Cork City Hall and Cork County Hall, iconic buildings including Dublin's Mansion House, Limerick Council Offices, and Sligo City Hall will be illuminated in red to raise awareness.

The IHA urges anyone experiencing symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, or irregular heartbeat to consult their GP, who can arrange a simple blood test to detect high iron levels. Treatment involves regular blood removal, similar to blood donation, which effectively manages the condition when diagnosed early.

For more information, visit www.haemochromatosis.ie.