Last Updated on October 21, 2025 by mcelik

Inherited diseases and disorders are a critical area of health that affect families across generations. Did you know some blood disorders can be passed down through generations? Genetic factors play a big role in these conditions. It’s important to understand their impact and the options available for diagnosis and management. We will explore how these conditions manifest and what families need to know.

Hereditary conditions can deeply affect families. They influence not just the individual but the whole family. By looking into the genetic side of blood disorders, we can understand their causes and treatments better.

Knowing the genetic basis of these conditions is key to good care and support. At our institution, we aim to provide top-notch healthcare. We also offer international patient support and guidance.

Key Takeaways

• Genetic factors significantly influence blood disorders.
• Familial diseases can have a profound impact on family members.
• Understanding hereditary conditions is key for effective treatment.
• Comprehensive care addresses both physical and emotional aspects of genetic disorders.
• International patient support is vital for families with these conditions.

Understanding Blood and Its Components

Blood is vital for our bodies, carrying out many important tasks. It’s made up of cells and plasma, each with a key role in keeping us healthy.

The Function of Blood in the Human Body

Blood’s main job is to move oxygen and nutrients to our cells and take away waste. This is key for our organs and tissues to work right. It also helps control our body temperature, pH levels, and hormone delivery.

Key Components: Red Cells, White Cells, Platelets, and Plasma

Blood has several important parts, each with its own job. Red blood cells (RBCs) carry oxygen to our tissues. White blood cells (WBCs) help fight off infections. Platelets help our blood to clot, stopping us from bleeding too much when we get hurt. Plasma is the liquid part of blood, making up about 55% of it. It’s mostly water, with proteins, nutrients, hormones, gases, waste, and ions making up the rest.

How Blood Disorders Affect These Components

Blood disorders can harm our blood’s components, causing health problems. For example, issues with red blood cells can cause anemia or too many cells. White blood cell problems can lead to infections or leukemia. Platelet issues can cause bleeding or clotting problems, like thrombocytopenia or thrombophilia.

Thrombophilia diseases make it easier for blood clots to form, which can be dangerous. Other diseases, like leukemia and lymphoma, affect how our blood cells are made and work. Knowing the signs of these disorders is key for early treatment.

The Genetics Behind Inherited Blood Disorders

Understanding the genetic basis of inherited blood disorders is key for diagnosis and treatment. These conditions are passed down through generations. They often result from mutations or changes in genes that control blood formation and function.

DNA, Genes, and Chromosomes: The Basics

DNA is the molecule that holds the genetic instructions for all living things. It’s made up of genes, which are the basic units of heredity. Genes are arranged on chromosomes, which carry hereditary information. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46, with one set from each parent.

Genetic mutations or changes in the DNA sequence can cause health issues, including blood disorders. These mutations can affect how blood cells are produced, function, or are regulated.

How Genetic Mutations Affect Blood Formation and Function

Genetic mutations can disrupt blood cell production and function. For example, mutations in genes responsible for hemoglobin production can cause sickle cell disease or thalassemia. Mutations in genes that regulate blood clotting can lead to bleeding disorders like hemophilia.

• Mutations in genes coding for clotting factors can lead to hemophilia, a condition where blood can’t clot properly.
• Alterations in genes responsible for red blood cell production or structure can cause anemia or other red blood cell disorders.
• Changes in genes that regulate white blood cell production or function can impair the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.

The Role of Family History in Blood Disorders

Family history is critical in diagnosing and managing inherited blood disorders. By understanding the medical history of relatives, healthcare providers can identify patterns of inheritance and genetic risks. This information is invaluable for genetic counseling and making informed decisions about testing and preventive measures.

Key aspects of family history include:

1. The presence of blood disorders in close relatives.
2. The age of onset and severity of the condition in family members.
3. The pattern of inheritance, whether it is autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, or X-linked.

By examining these factors, we can better understand genetic risks. We can then develop strategies for managing inherited blood disorders.

Inheritance Patterns in Blood Disorders

Understanding how blood disorders are inherited is key to diagnosing and managing them. These disorders can be passed down in different ways. This affects how they show up in people.

Autosomal Dominant Inheritance

Autosomal dominant inheritance means one mutated gene can cause the condition. If one parent has it, each child has a 50% chance of getting it. Examples include hereditary spherocytosis and von Willebrand disease.

Autosomal Recessive Inheritance

Autosomal recessive inheritance requires two mutated genes to cause the condition. Carriers, with one normal and one mutated gene, usually don’t show symptoms. But they can pass the mutated gene to their kids. Sickle cell disease and thalassemia are examples.

X-Linked Inheritance

X-linked inheritance involves genes on the X chromosome. Males, with only one X chromosome, are more likely to have these disorders. Females can be carriers and pass it to their sons. Hemophilia A and B are examples.

Multifactorial Inheritance

Multifactorial inheritance is caused by both genetics and environment. These disorders don’t follow simple patterns. They can be influenced by many genes and lifestyle factors.

Inheritance Pattern	Description	Examples of Blood Disorders
Autosomal Dominant	One mutated gene copy causes the condition	Hereditary Spherocytosis, von Willebrand Disease
Autosomal Recessive	Two mutated gene copies required	Sickle Cell Disease, Thalassemia
X-Linked	Genes on X chromosome, more common in males	Hemophilia A and B
Multifactorial	Combination of genetic and environmental factors	Various clotting disorders

Common Inherited Diseases and Disorders of the Blood

It’s important to know about common inherited blood diseases. These diseases can really affect people’s lives. We need to spread the word and help those affected get the care they need.

Overview of Hereditary Blood Conditions

Hereditary blood conditions are caused by genetic mutations. They affect different types of blood cells. Genetic disorders that are caused by mutations can lead to health problems like anemia and bleeding issues.

Some common diseases include sickle cell disease, thalassemia, hemophilia, and von Willebrand disease. Each has its own genetic cause and treatment needs.

Prevalence in Different Populations

Different groups have different rates of inherited blood disorders. For example, sickle cell disease is common in people of African descent. Thalassemia is more common in the Mediterranean, Middle East, and South Asia.

The World Health Organization says these disorders are a big public health issue worldwide. About 5% of the world’s population has a trait for one of these disorders. Some areas have even higher rates due to genetics and environment.

Impact on Public Health

Inherited blood disorders affect not just the person with the condition but also their families and communities. The costs include medical bills, lost work time, and social support needs.

Health experts say we need a big effort to tackle these disorders. This includes raising awareness, screening, diagnosing, and treating them. We should also improve healthcare and genetic counseling.

By understanding these disorders, we can make better plans to help those affected. This will improve their lives and the lives of their families.

Hemophilia: The Royal Disease

Hemophilia is a bleeding disorder that affects the blood’s ability to clot. It has been common among European royal families. This condition makes it hard for blood to clot, leading to long bleeding times. We will look at the different types of hemophilia, how it’s inherited, its history, and modern treatments.

Types of Hemophilia

Hemophilia is divided into three types: Hemophilia A, B, and C. Hemophilia A is the most common, caused by a lack of factor VIII. Hemophilia B, or Christmas disease, is due to a lack of factor IX. Hemophilia C is a milder form caused by a lack of factor XI.

X-Linked Inheritance Pattern

Hemophilia follows an X-linked recessive pattern. This means the genes for hemophilia are on the X chromosome. Males, with only one X chromosome, are more often affected. Females can carry the gene but are less likely to have it.

Historical Significance in European Royal Families

Hemophilia is known as “The Royal Disease” because of its history in European royal families. Queen Victoria carried the gene, passing it to her children. This spread the disease to many royal families through marriage.

Modern Treatment Approaches

Today, hemophilia treatment involves replacing missing clotting factors. Prophylactic treatment helps prevent bleeding. Gene therapy is a new hope, aiming to fix the genetic cause of hemophilia. We will explore these treatments and their challenges.

Sickle Cell Disease and Trait

Sickle cell disease and trait are linked to genetics and affect people worldwide. This disease causes abnormal hemoglobin, leading to sickle-shaped red blood cells. These cells can cause health problems.

Genetic Basis and Autosomal Recessive Inheritance

Sickle cell disease comes from a gene mutation in the HBB gene. This mutation makes hemoglobin S, which changes red blood cells under low oxygen. It’s inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, needing two defective genes to show symptoms.

Autosomal Recessive Inheritance Pattern: Carriers have one normal and one mutated gene. They usually don’t show symptoms but can pass the mutated gene to their kids.

Prevalence and Geographic Distribution

Sickle cell disease is common in tropical and subtropical areas. It’s most seen in sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and parts of India. This is because it protects against malaria, common in these places.

Symptoms and Complications

People with sickle cell disease face many symptoms. These include pain episodes, anemia, infections, and risks like stroke or organ damage. Symptoms vary in severity and frequency among those affected.

Symptom/Complication	Description
Pain Episodes	Recurring episodes of pain due to vaso-occlusion
Anemia	Chronic anemia due to red blood cell destruction
Infections	Increased susceptibility to infections, particular pneumococcal infections
Stroke	Risk of stroke due to vaso-occlusion in cerebral vessels

Evolutionary Advantage Against Malaria

The sickle cell trait helps protect against malaria, mainly severe forms caused by Plasmodium falciparum. This is why the sickle cell gene is more common in malaria areas.

In summary, sickle cell disease and trait are major health issues with a complex genetic and epidemiological background. Knowing their genetic basis, prevalence, symptoms, and benefits against malaria is key to managing and treating them well.

Thalassemias: Alpha and Beta Types

It’s important to know about thalassemias, including alpha and beta types. These are genetic disorders that affect how red blood cells carry oxygen. They happen when there’s a problem with the production of hemoglobin.

Genetic Causes and Inheritance Patterns

Thalassemias come from mutations in genes that make up hemoglobin. These mutations can cause anemia and other issues. People need to get two mutated genes, one from each parent, to have the condition.

Thalassemias are split into alpha-thalassemia and beta-thalassemia. Alpha-thalassemia happens when there’s a problem with the genes for alpha-globin. Beta-thalassemia is caused by issues with the genes for beta-globin.

Severity Spectrum: Trait, Minor, Intermedia, and Major

Thalassemia can range from mild to severe. Some people might not show symptoms but can pass the gene to their kids. Others might need blood transfusions to survive.

• Trait: Carriers who are generally asymptomatic but can pass the mutated gene to their offspring.
• Minor: Individuals with mild anemia.
• Intermedia: Patients with moderate anemia who may require occasional transfusions.
• Major: Those with severe anemia who require regular blood transfusions to survive.

Clinical Manifestations and Management

People with thalassemia might feel tired, look pale, and have anemia. In severe cases, they might also have bone problems. Treatment includes blood transfusions, iron chelation, and sometimes bone marrow transplants.

It’s also important to consider the emotional impact of thalassemia. Patients and their families need support and counseling.

Global Distribution and Prevalence

Thalassemias are common in areas where malaria used to be a big problem. This includes parts of the Mediterranean, Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. Millions of people worldwide are affected.

Region	Prevalence of Thalassemia Trait	Prevalence of Thalassemia Major
Mediterranean	High	Moderate
Middle East	Moderate to High	Moderate
South Asia	High	High
Southeast Asia	Moderate to High	Moderate

Knowing where thalassemias are common helps in planning health strategies. It also helps in giving genetic advice to those affected.

Hereditary Thrombophilia Disorders

Hereditary thrombophilia disorders are conditions that make blood clots more likely. They are passed down through families and can cause serious health issues. We will look at these disorders, how they are inherited, and how to prevent and manage them.

Factor V Leiden and Prothrombin Gene Mutations

Factor V Leiden and prothrombin gene mutations are common hereditary thrombophilia disorders. Factor V Leiden makes it harder for activated protein C to stop blood clotting. Prothrombin gene mutation leads to more prothrombin, increasing clot risk.

These conditions can cause deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). These are serious and can be life-threatening. Knowing the genetic cause is key to identifying risk.

Protein C, Protein S, and Antithrombin Deficiencies

Protein C, Protein S, and Antithrombin deficiencies also increase clotting risk. Protein C and S regulate clotting, while Antithrombin stops several clotting factors. Without enough, the body favors clotting.

These deficiencies are usually inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. This means one mutated gene can significantly raise the risk of blood clots.

Inheritance Patterns and Risk Assessment

Hereditary thrombophilia disorders have different inheritance patterns. Some, like Factor V Leiden, are autosomal dominant. Others may have more complex patterns. Knowing family history and genetics is key to assessing risk.

To assess risk, doctors look at genetic mutations, family history, and other factors like age and obesity. This helps provide personalized advice to prevent clots.

Prevention and Management of Clotting Events

Preventing and managing hereditary thrombophilia involves anticoagulant therapy and lifestyle changes. Anticoagulants reduce clot risk but must be managed to avoid bleeding. Lifestyle changes include staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged sitting.

For those at high risk, anticoagulation may be recommended during surgery or pregnancy. Understanding and managing these disorders can greatly reduce clotting risk and improve life quality.

Von Willebrand Disease and Other Clotting Disorders

It’s important to know about Von Willebrand disease and other clotting disorders. These conditions make it hard for blood to clot. This can lead to health problems.

Types and Inheritance Patterns

Von Willebrand disease is a common bleeding disorder. It’s caused by a problem with the Von Willebrand factor (VWF) protein. This protein helps blood clot. There are three types, with Type 1 being the most common and Type 3 the most severe.

This disease is usually passed down in an autosomal dominant way. This means one copy of the mutated gene can cause the condition. But, how severe it is can vary a lot.

Symptoms include easy bruising, nosebleeds, and heavy periods. Bleeding after injuries or surgeries also happens. Doctors use tests to check VWF levels and function, and genetic tests to find mutations.

Other clotting disorders like hemophilia A and B have their own symptoms and tests. Knowing these differences is key for the right diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Options and Lifestyle Management

Treatment often involves replacing the missing clotting factor or protein. Desmopressin is used for Type 1 Von Willebrand disease to help release VWF.

Managing your lifestyle is also important. Avoid injuries, wear protective gear, and be ready for emergencies. Always tell your doctor about your condition before any medical procedures.

Understanding Von Willebrand disease and other clotting disorders helps us manage them better. This improves life quality for those affected.

Inherited Anemias Beyond Sickle Cell and Thalassemia

There are many inherited anemias beyond sickle cell and thalassemia. These conditions affect people worldwide. They are important to know about because of their big impact on quality of life.

Hereditary Spherocytosis

Hereditary spherocytosis is a genetic disorder. It makes red blood cells shape abnormally. This leads to early destruction of red blood cells and anemia.

The severity of hereditary spherocytosis varies. It can range from mild to severe anemia. Treatment often includes removing the spleen. This can greatly improve or even cure the anemia.

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is an X-linked genetic disorder. It affects the enzyme that keeps red blood cells healthy. People with G6PD deficiency can have hemolytic crises from certain medications, infections, or foods.

The condition is more common in males, as they have only one X chromosome.Managing it involves avoiding triggers and sometimes treating acute hemolytic episodes.

Fanconi Anemia

Fanconi anemia is a rare genetic disorder. It causes bone marrow failure, leading to a big drop in blood cell production. It increases the risk of cancer, like leukemia, and other health problems.

Early diagnosis and treatment, including bone marrow transplantation, are critical for managing Fanconi anemia.Gene therapy research offers hope for better treatments in the future.

Diamond-Blackfan Anemia

Diamond-Blackfan anemia is a rare congenital disorder. It affects the production of red blood cells, causing severe anemia. It is often diagnosed in infancy or early childhood.

Treatment usually involves corticosteroids to boost red blood cell production. Sometimes, blood transfusions are needed.It requires lifelong management and increases the risk of certain cancers.

In conclusion, inherited anemias beyond sickle cell and thalassemia are complex and diverse. Understanding these conditions is key to providing the right care and support. As research advances, we can expect better diagnosis and treatment, improving the lives of those affected.

“The complexity of inherited anemias necessitates a thorough approach to diagnosis and treatment. This highlights the importance of genetic counseling and ongoing medical care for affected families.”

Hereditary Blood Cancers and Predisposition Syndromes

Understanding the genetic basis of blood cancers is key. It helps identify those at risk and offers the right care. Hereditary blood cancers and predisposition syndromes are linked to genetics.

Familial Leukemia and Lymphoma Syndromes

Familial leukemia and lymphoma syndromes show a family history of these cancers. Research has found genetic mutations that raise the risk. For example, TP53 gene mutations are linked to Li-Fraumeni syndrome, boosting cancer risk, including leukemia.

Important factors in these syndromes include:

• Family history of leukemia or lymphoma
• Specific genetic mutations
• Early cancer onset
• Multiple cases in the family

Inherited Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Inherited myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are disorders with ineffective blood production. They can lead to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Syndromes like Fanconi anemia and Dyskeratosis congenita increase MDS risk.

Key characteristics of inherited MDS include:

1. Genetic predisposition
2. Bone marrow failure
3. Higher AML risk

Genetic Testing for Cancer Predisposition

Genetic testing is vital for spotting hereditary blood cancer risks. It looks at genes linked to cancer to offer targeted care.

Testing involves:

• Finding harmful mutations
• Looking at family history
• Offering genetic counseling

For families with hereditary blood cancers, testing and counseling are very helpful. We suggest those with a big family history of blood cancers talk to a doctor. They can discuss risks and options.

Rare Inherited Blood Disorders

Rare genetic conditions in the blood can deeply affect people’s lives. These disorders are not common but need a deep understanding for good care. We will look at some rare conditions, their traits, and how to manage them.

Hereditary Hemochromatosis

Hereditary hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder where too much iron builds up in the body. If not treated, it can harm organs.

Symptoms and Management: Early signs are tiredness and joint pain. To manage it, regular blood draws are needed to lower iron levels.

Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) affects blood vessels, causing malformations and bleeding issues.

Characteristics: HHT leads to telangiectasias and arteriovenous malformations. Treatment aims to control symptoms and prevent serious problems.

Condition	Primary Symptoms	Management Approach
Hereditary Hemochromatosis	Fatigue, Joint Pain	Regular Blood Draws
Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia	Nosebleeds, Telangiectasias	Symptom Management, Complication Prevention

Congenital Dyserythropoietic Anemias

Congenital dyserythropoietic anemias (CDAs) are rare genetic disorders affecting red blood cell production.

Types and Symptoms: CDAs have different types based on genetics and appearance. Symptoms include anemia and jaundice.

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare, acquired, life-threatening blood disease. It destroys red blood cells.

Characteristics and Treatment: PNH gets worse at night. Treatment focuses on controlling hemolysis and preventing blood clots.

It’s key for healthcare providers to understand these rare blood disorders. Recognizing signs early can greatly improve patient care and life quality.

Diagnosing Inherited Blood Disorders

To diagnose inherited blood disorders, we need a detailed approach. This includes looking at family history and using advanced genetic tests. We will cover the different ways to diagnose these conditions. This ensures patients get the right diagnosis quickly.

Family History Assessment

Understanding a family’s medical history is key. Healthcare providers look at relatives’ health to spot patterns. This helps figure out if a genetic condition is likely and guides further tests.

Genetic Testing and Counseling

Genetic testing is a powerful tool. It checks an individual’s genes for mutations linked to certain conditions. Genetic counseling is also important. It helps patients and their families understand the risks and what these disorders mean.

Prenatal and Newborn Screening

Prenatal and newborn screening are critical. They can find conditions early in life. Prenatal screening checks the fetus, while newborn screening looks for disorders right after birth. This allows for early treatment.

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques

New technologies like next-generation sequencing have changed diagnosis. These tools help find genetic mutations accurately. This leads to better diagnosis and treatment plans.

Diagnostic Method	Description	Benefits
Family History Assessment	Detailed medical history of relatives	Identifies patterns indicating genetic conditions
Genetic Testing	Analysis of genes for mutations	Accurate diagnosis of inherited disorders
Prenatal Screening	Detection of conditions in the fetus
Newborn Screening	Identification of disorders after birth	Timely treatment and management

Treatment Approaches for Hereditary Blood Conditions

Treatment for hereditary blood conditions has made big strides. This brings new hope to those affected. Now, we have many treatments, each one fitting the patient’s needs.

Medication and Replacement Therapies

For many blood conditions, medication and replacement therapies are key. For example, in hemophilia, where blood doesn’t clot, we give clotting factors. This helps the blood to clot right and stops bleeding.

In some anemias, drugs help make more red blood cells or stop them from being destroyed. This helps manage symptoms and improves life quality.

Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplantation

Bone marrow and stem cell transplants are more serious treatments. They replace the patient’s bone marrow or stem cells with healthy ones. This can be from a donor or the patient’s own cells, treated to fix the genetic issue.

This method is key for sickle cell disease and thalassemia major. It can cure the condition or greatly reduce symptoms.

Emerging Gene Therapies and CRISPR Technology

Gene therapy is getting better fast, with new hopes for treating blood conditions. It fixes or replaces the faulty gene, using a vector to get the healthy gene into cells.

CRISPR technology is even newer, allowing for precise genome editing. It could fix genetic mutations at their source. Though early, these technologies are very promising.

Clinical Trials and Research Advancements

Clinical trials are vital for new treatments. They offer patients new therapies and help science advance. By joining trials, patients help us learn more about these conditions.

Research into these disorders never stops. Scientists keep working to understand and treat them better. As we learn more, we get more treatment options for patients.

Treatment Approach	Description	Examples of Conditions Treated
Medication and Replacement Therapies	Using drugs or replacing deficient factors to manage symptoms and prevent complications.	Hemophilia, certain anemias
Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplantation	Replacing defective stem cells with healthy ones to cure or significantly improve the condition.	Sickle Cell Disease, Thalassemia Major
Gene Therapies and CRISPR Technology	Correcting or replacing the faulty gene responsible for the condition.	Various hereditary blood disorders

Living with an inherited blood disorder involves navigating a complex journey.

Living with an inherited blood disorder involves navigating a complex journey. It involves medical, emotional, and social challenges. Understanding the impact on individuals and families is key.

Managing Symptoms and Preventing Complications

Managing inherited blood disorders is vital to prevent complications. It requires medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and regular check-ups. For example, those with hereditary blood clotting disorders should avoid certain medications.

• Regular medical check-ups to monitor the condition and adjust treatments as necessary.
• Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding contact sports for those with bleeding disorders.
• Adherence to prescribed medication regimens, such as clotting factor replacements for hemophilia.

Psychological and Social Impacts

Living with an inherited blood disorder involves navigating a complex journey.social life. People may feel anxious, depressed, or isolated. It’s important to seek support and counseling.

Support groups offer a sense of community. Sharing experiences with others who understand can be very helpful.

Lifestyle Considerations and Adaptations

Adapting to a new lifestyle is essential for those with inherited blood disorders. This might include dietary changes or safe exercises.

1. For those with can’t stop bleeding disorder, being mindful of injury risks and taking preventive steps.
2. Understanding the importance of genetic counseling for family planning.
3. Staying informed about the latest treatments and research.

Support Resources for Patients and Families

Access to support resources is vital for those with inherited blood disorders and their families. This includes educational materials, support groups, and healthcare services.

By using these resources and managing their condition proactively, individuals can live fulfilling lives. A holistic care approach is essential, addressing medical, psychological, and social needs.

Conclusion: The Future of Treating Inherited Blood Disorders

Inherited blood disorders include many conditions, like hemophilia and sickle cell disease. Understanding their genetics is key for diagnosis and treatment.

Research has made big strides in inherited blood diseases. It has shown how genetic mutations can cause bleeding or clotting issues. Genetic testing can often tell if nosebleeds are genetic.

The future for treating these disorders is bright. Gene therapy and other new treatments are being developed. As we learn more about these conditions, we can find better ways to manage them.

We are dedicated to top-notch healthcare for everyone. We focus on the latest research and treatments. This way, we can give the best care to those with inherited blood disorders.

FAQ

References

Virdee, P. S., et al. (2023). BLOod Test Trend for cancEr Detection (BLOTTED): Improving cancer prediction using longitudinal blood test data. BMC Medicine. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9830700/