Frequently asked question: Is hemoglobin in children and adults structured differently than in unborn babies and newborns?

Yes, it is. The hemoglobin of children and adults is referred to as hemoglobin A1 (where A stands for Adult). Unborn babies and newborns have a different kind of hemoglobin called hemoglobin F (F stands for Fetal). This hemoglobin is structured differently to allow the baby to absorb sufficient oxygen from the mother's blood while it is still in the womb. Doctors often refer to this as baby hemoglobin. After birth, hemoglobin F is gradually converted into hemoglobin A1.

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The role and structure of hemoglobin

How do the organs in the body receive oxygen (fuel)?

How does the body get rid of carbon dioxide (waste)?

How is the formation of sickle cells triggered?

Is hemoglobin in children and adults structured differently than in unborn babies and newborns?

What exactly does hemoglobin do in the body?

What is a hemoglobinopathy?

What is hemoglobin?

What is wrong with the hemoglobin in cases of sickle cell disease?

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General

Medication and sickle cell disease

Occurrence of sickle cell disease

Sickle cell disease and pregnancy

Sickle cell disease symptoms and problems

The hereditary nature of sickle cell disease

The problem with hemoglobin S

The role and structure of hemoglobin

The sickle cell disease diagnosis

Traveling with sickle cell disease

Treatment of severe sickle cell disease

Treatment of sickle cell disease; prevention, treatment, and support