Inherited disorders are caused by defective genes in the cells which make up the body. Genes, which are made of DNA, contain the information the body needs to develop from the egg, and to maintain itself in good working order. Human beings have about 60,000 genes and every cell in the body, except sperm and egg cells, contains two copies of each. One of these copies is inherited from the mother and one from the father. Studies are being conducted to find which one of the 60,000 genes is defective in people suffering from Haemochromatosis.
Symptoms only develop if both copies of the gene are abnormal.
If only one copy is defective, an individual will be perfectly healthy but will be a 'canter'. This means he or she will be able to pass on the abnormal gene to a son or daughter. By contrast, ALL the eggs or sperms of an individual in whom both gene copies are defective and who, as a result, suffers from Haemochromatosis, will carry the abnormal gene. To develop Haemochromatosis you have to inherit a defective gene from both your parents. Relatives who are at risk should be tested.