Related Experiment Videos
Sickle cell morbidity profile in Omani children
1Department of Paediatrics, Nizwa Hospital, Nizwa, Sultanate of Oman. efjay@omantel.net.om
Annals of Tropical Paediatrics
|April 3, 2002
Summary
Sickle cell disease in Omani children presents a severe morbidity profile, with vaso-occlusive crises and weight faltering being most common. This highlights the need for improved management and prevention strategies for pediatric sickle cell disease.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Hematology
- Genetics
Background:
- Sickle cell disease (SCD) poses a significant global health challenge, particularly in pediatric populations.
- Understanding the specific morbidity patterns in different ethnic and geographic groups is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the morbidity profile of sickle cell disease in Omani children.
- To identify common complications and assess disease severity in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 97 Omani children (aged <= 12 years) with SCD admitted between July 1999 and June 2000.
- Data collection included admission reasons, frequency, complications, and anthropometric measurements.
- Comparison of weight faltering with age- and sex-matched non-sickle cell disease controls.
Main Results:
- Vaso-occlusive crises (83%) and severe anemia (12%) were primary admission reasons.
- Significant weight faltering was observed in 68% of children with SCD compared to 28% of controls (p < 0.001).
- Other complications included hypersplenism, avascular necrosis, acute chest syndrome, and splenic sequestration; 71% had moderately severe to severe disease.
Conclusions:
- Omani children with sickle cell disease exhibit a severe morbidity profile.
- Meteorological and genetic factors may contribute to this pattern.
- There is an urgent need for enhanced management strategies and preventive measures for pediatric SCD.