What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're concerned about alpha-thalassemia in yourself, your child, or another family member. It's often used when someone has unexplained anemia, a family history of thalassemia, or when a relative has already been identified as a carrier of alpha globin gene deletions. It can also be used during pregnancy to help understand the risk of passing alpha-thalassemia to a baby.

What's included in this test?

This test looks specifically at the genes responsible for making a part of your blood's oxygen-carrying protein. It matters because missing or duplicated copies of these genes can explain unexplained anemia, fatigue, or abnormal red blood cell findings, and can also affect family planning decisions.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear securely in your account, along with an explanation of what a normal versus abnormal gene pattern looks like for this test. Because this is a genetic test, next steps often involve sharing the results with family members who may also want to be tested, especially if planning a pregnancy. You can download a standard lab report directly from your account at any time, and since this test reflects your genetic makeup rather than a changing lab value, retesting is generally not needed once a clear result is obtained.

How can I naturally support healthy red blood cell function?

While gene deletions themselves can't be changed through diet or lifestyle, supporting your body's ability to make healthy red blood cells can help you feel your best. Eating iron-rich foods like leafy greens, beans, and lean meats, along with vitamin B12 and folate sources, supports normal red blood cell production. Staying hydrated and getting regular movement can also help with energy levels if you experience mild anemia. Always check with a lab professional before starting iron supplements, since too much iron can be harmful in some thalassemia carriers.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll receive a notification once your results are posted to your secure online account. Genetic tests like this one can take a bit longer than routine bloodwork because of the specialized lab analysis required.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people with a family history of alpha-thalassemia, those with unexplained mild anemia, or couples planning a pregnancy who want to understand their carrier status. It's also useful for family members of someone already diagnosed with an alpha globin gene deletion. If you have Southeast Asian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, or African ancestry, your risk of carrying this trait may be higher, making this test worth considering.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Mild, unexplained fatigue, pale skin, or mild anemia that doesn't respond to iron supplements can sometimes point to an alpha globin gene issue. Small or pale red blood cells found on a routine blood count can also be a clue. Many carriers have no symptoms at all, which is why family history or ancestry is often the main reason to test.

What does it mean if gene deletions are found?

Finding one or more alpha globin gene deletions means you carry a genetic change linked to alpha-thalassemia. Having one or two missing genes usually causes very mild or no symptoms, while missing three or four genes can cause more noticeable anemia. The report will explain how many gene copies were found so you understand your specific result.

How often should I retest?

Since this test looks at your fixed genetic makeup, it generally only needs to be done once in your lifetime. Retesting isn't necessary unless there's a specific reason, such as confirming lab results for a new pregnancy or clarifying an unclear prior result. Family members, however, may each want their own test since genes are inherited differently by each person.

What should I do if my results show a gene deletion?

If your results show one or more deletions, consider letting close biological relatives know, since they may also want to get tested, especially before starting a family. Simple lifestyle steps like maintaining good nutrition and avoiding unnecessary iron supplements can help manage mild symptoms. If you experience significant fatigue, shortness of breath, or signs of severe anemia, seek medical care promptly.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Alpha-Globin Gene Test - Thalassemia Carrier Screening

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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