The early diagnosis of the genetic condition, haemochromatosis, is essential to ensure that those affected are not left untreated, the Irish Haemochromatosis Association has said.

It recently held its inaugural Iron Games Ireland to raise funds and awareness of the condition, which is more common in Ireland than anywhere else in the world.

Haemochromatosis is a hereditary condition in which excessive amounts of iron are absorbed from the diet. This iron is deposited in various organs, including the liver, pancreas and heart, as well as the joints.

Early diagnosis is vital as without treatment, the condition can cause premature death.

Since iron builds up slowly, symptoms may not appear until a person is in their 30s or 40s. Symptoms can include unexplained fatigue, arthritis particularly in the first and second knuckles and/or ankles, diabetes, liver disorders and discolouration and/or bronzing of the skin.

Treatment is venesection, which means the removal of blood. It is just like giving a blood donation. How often you will need to undergo venesection will depend on how far advanced your condition is.

Treatment is most effective when begun early as it can successfully prevent organ damage. If damage has already occurred, treatment should halt any further damage and in most cases, bring about some improvement.

Iron Games Ireland 2019 brought together over 120 players representing some well-known construction companies from across Ireland and the UK to compete for the Perpetual Iron Games Cup in Gaelic football at Croke Park.

The football tournament, along with an upcoming golf tournament at the K Club, will raise vital funds for the association.

"Through playing and participating in the Iron Games, all our players, sponsors and supporters have helped us raise more awareness of how important early diagnosis of haemochromatosis is, as the disorder is more common in Ireland than anywhere in the world. It is essential that we do all in our power to ensure that no Irish person goes undiagnosed or is left untreated," commented the association's chairperson, Margaret Mullett.

Currently in Ireland, one in five people are carriers of the haemochromatosis gene and one in 83 people is predisposed to develop it.

The association encourages anyone who is suffering from symptoms such as chronic fatigue, joint pain, diabetes, irregular heartbeat and an enlarged liver to consult their GP.

A simple blood test to check a patient's iron status can confirm or rule out iron overload. Once diagnosed, treatment is simple, however early detection is vital for sufferers to avoid organ damage and achieve a normal life expectancy.

For more information on the Irish Haemochromatosis Association, click here.

*Pictured is association chairperson, Margaret Mullett, with the winning team of the inaugural Iron Games Ireland in Croke Park.