It’s a blood disorder that you’ve never heard of, which affects one in 200 people.

Hereditary Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that leads to the accumulation of iron in the liver, heart, pancreas, skin and gonads. Too much iron in the blood can lead to serious health problems, including damage or destruction of the liver, pancreas and other internal organs.  If left untreated, HH can lead to liver cancer and heart failure, among other serious diseases.

People with the disorder must have blood drawn regularly to rid their blood of iron. The process, called phlebotomy, lowers iron levels; the blood is then donated to local hospitals and trauma centers. Patients usually have to pay for the process, but LifeSource is doing it for free, with a doctor’s prescription.

Incidentally, July is National Hereditary Hemochromatosis Awareness Month, and those living with the disorder are hoping Chicagoans can pitch in and donate blood at Life Source centers across Chicagoland. 

Here are locations offering the free service:

• State of Illinois Donor Center, 100 W. Randolph
• The blood bank’s Lincoln Park location, 1523 W. Fullerton
  
• Portage Park Donor Center, 4650 W. Irving Park
• Family Life Community Center, 5417 S. Austin

The American Red Cross says blood drives across Illinois are down, thanks to the slow economy, but this is one event that won’t be stopped by dollars and cents.