Hemoglobin C

Hemoglobin C is a variation of the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. People with hemoglobin C have a change in their gene that causes their red blood cells to become slightly misshapen and less flexible. This can lead to mild anemia, where the body doesn't produce enough healthy red blood cells, and may cause mild fatigue or jaundice. It is inherited, often more common in people from West Africa, and usually causes fewer health problems compared to other blood disorders like sickle cell disease. Many individuals with hemoglobin C live healthy lives with minimal symptoms.