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Sickle cell disease in childhood in Madina

Z M Hawasawi1, G Nabi, M S Al Magamci

  • 1Maternity and Children's Hospital, Madina, Saudi Arabia.

Annals of Saudi Medicine
|March 9, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects children in Saudi Arabia, with 53 cases identified in Madina. Early detection via neonatal screening and new treatments are crucial for managing this significant health issue.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Hematology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Sickle cell disease (SCD) is prevalent in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the Eastern and Southern regions.
  • This study focuses on 53 cases of SCD identified in the Madina area, highlighting its regional impact.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report on the incidence and characteristics of sickle cell disease in pediatric patients in Madina, Saudi Arabia.
  • To understand the primary causes of admission and patient demographics for SCD in the region.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective study analyzed 6000 pediatric patient admissions at Madina's Maternity and Children's Hospital (November 1990 - October 1991).
  • Identified 53 children (0.88%) with sickle cell disease, including Saudis (73.58%) and non-Saudis (26.41%).

Main Results:

  • The study included 36 patients with homozygous SS and 17 with sickle thalassemia.
  • Common admissions were for vaso-occlusive crisis (77.35%), infection (67.92%), and acute chest syndrome (22.64%).
  • Patient ages ranged from six months to 12 years, with no reported mortality during follow-up.

Conclusions:

  • Sickle cell disease is a major cause of morbidity in Madina, Saudi Arabia.
  • Neonatal screening programs are recommended for early detection.
  • Further research into novel therapeutic agents for SCD is warranted.
Abstract

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