Hemoglobin E (HbE) disease is a mild, inherited blood disorder characterized by an abnormal form of hemoglobin, called hemoglobin E. People with this condition may have very mild anemia, but the condition typically does not cause any symptoms. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner and is caused by a mutation in the HBB gene. The mutation that causes hemoglobin E disease primarily occurs in Southeast Asian populations, and rarely in Chinese populations. Most people with HbE disease do not need any treatment. 

Most people with hemoglobin E (HbE) disease do not have any symptoms. Some people may have mild anemia and microcytosis (a red blood cell size smaller than the normal range).

Treatment for hemoglobin E disease is typically not needed. Folic acid supplements may be prescribed to help the body produce normal red blood cells if mild anemia causes symptoms. Most people do not have any symptoms. People with hemoglobin E disease can expect to lead a normal life.