Hereditary hemochromatosis type 1, also known as hereditary hemochromatosis 
classical (HHC), is an iron overload disorder associated, in most cases, with 
mutations of the hemochromatosis (HFE) gene. Although suggested algorithms for 
diagnosing iron overload are available, there are still questions about options 
for genetic and biochemical screening for hemochromatosis and duration of 
treatment. This article provides a summary of an expert workgroup meeting 
convened on September 24-25, 2009, entitled "Iron Overload: What is the Role of 
Public Health?" The purpose of the meeting was to enable subject matter experts 
to share their most recent clinical and scientific iron overload information and 
to facilitate the discussion of future endeavors, with special emphasis on the 
role of public health in this field. The two main topics were the research 
priorities of the field, including clinical, genetic, and public health issues, 
and the concerns about the validity of current screening recommendations for the 
condition.