Hemochromatosis is a condition in which the body builds up too
much iron. Two types of hemochromatosis are: This type is caused
by inherited genes. These genes cause the stomach and intestines
to absorb too much iron. It is the most common genetic disorder
in the US. This type results from treatments or diseases that
cause iron to build up in the body. This may include: If found
early HH is easily treated. Untreated HH can lead to severe
organ damage. Excess iron builds up in the cells of the liver,
heart, pancreas, joints, and pituitary gland. This leads to
diseases such as cirrhosis of the liver, liver cancer , diabetes
, heart disease , and joint disease. HH is caused by a genetic
defect. It is passed down through autosomal recessive
inheritance. This means a child who inherits two genes,one from
each parent, is very likely to develop HH. However, not all
people who have two copies of the gene develop signs and
symptoms of HH. Factors that increase your chance for developing
HH include: Many people have no