What is a possible health effect of hemoglobin D disease?

Hemoglobin D disease is a form of abnormal hemoglobin that can result from mutations in the beta-globin gene. Individuals with this condition can experience mild anemia due to the presence of the abnormal hemoglobin. The hemoglobin D variant has a reduced ability to carry oxygen compared to normal hemoglobin, which can lead to decreased red blood cell function and subsequently mild anemia. Patients may have varying degrees of anemia, but it is typically not severe, which aligns with the characteristics of this condition.

In contrast, severe anemia, while it can occur in other hemoglobinopathies, is not a characteristic of hemoglobin D disease itself and wouldn't be the typical outcome. Conditions like RBC cancer or unusual bruising are unrelated to the direct effects of hemoglobin D and are more associated with other hematologic disorders or issues affecting platelet function and coagulation. Therefore, mild anemia is the most appropriate choice as it reflects the expected health effect for patients with hemoglobin D disease.