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Sickle cell disease: new opportunities and challenges in Africa

J Makani1, S F Ofori-Acquah2, O Nnodu3

  • 1Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania ; Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.

Thescientificworldjournal
|August 22, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a major global genetic disorder. This review focuses on SCD in Africa, detailing its molecular basis, epidemiology, diagnosis, and management, especially in resource-limited settings.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Hematology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a prevalent inherited blood disorder globally.
  • Africa bears the highest burden of SCD, significantly impacting health outcomes.
  • Understanding SCD's molecular and pathophysiological basis is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiology, molecular basis, and clinical manifestations of SCD in Africa.
  • To highlight effective laboratory diagnostic and management strategies for SCD in resource-limited settings.
  • To identify research gaps and guide evidence-based healthcare for SCD in Africa.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of SCD in Africa.
  • Analysis of epidemiological data, including prevalence, morbidity, and mortality.
  • Evaluation of diagnostic and management strategies, focusing on resource-limited contexts.

Main Results:

  • SCD is a leading cause of genetic illness and mortality worldwide, with Africa disproportionately affected.
  • Epidemiological data reveal significant prevalence and mortality rates across the African continent.
  • Effective, resource-conscious strategies for SCD diagnosis and management have been identified.

Conclusions:

  • SCD poses a substantial public health challenge in Africa.
  • Targeted interventions and further research are essential to mitigate the impact of SCD in Africa.
  • Evidence-based guidelines are needed to improve healthcare for SCD patients in resource-limited African settings.

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