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Updated: Apr 22, 2026
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Newborn screening for sickle cell disease in Jamaica: a review - past, present and future
L King1, J Knight-Madden2, M Reid2
1Sickle Cell Unit, Tropical Medicine Research Institute, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica, West Indies. lesley.king@uwimona.edu.jm.
Insights
Newborn screening for sickle cell disease (SCD) in Jamaica has improved child survival through simple interventions. Expanding this program island-wide is crucial for equitable access and further reducing SCD
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Newborn screening (NBS) for sickle cell disease (SCD) has been implemented in Jamaica since 1973, with a renewed effort since 1995.
- NBS has led to significant improvements in managing SCD and reducing childhood morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the successes and challenges of NBS for SCD in Jamaica.
- To advocate for island-wide NBS implementation to ensure equitable care.
- To emphasize the importance of comprehensive care models in improving outcomes for children with SCD.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical NBS data and current management strategies for SCD in Jamaica.
- Analysis of current coverage rates and identification of barriers to universal screening.
- Evaluation of the impact of interventions on morbidity and mortality.
Main Results:
- Approximately 40% of Jamaican children currently benefit from NBS for SCD.
- Significant strides in disease management and increased survival rates have been achieved.
- Challenges to island-wide screening include governance, policy, technology, and comprehensive care infrastructure.
Conclusions:
- Island-wide NBS for SCD is essential for equitable access to care in Jamaica.
- Continued efforts are needed to overcome existing challenges and achieve universal screening.
- The Jamaican Sickle Cell Unit's model of care demonstrates effective resource management and improved survival for children with SCD.
Abstract:
Newborn screening (NBS) for sickle cell disease (SCD) has occurred in Jamaica since 1973 in two periods, the most recent being since 1995. As a result of NBS, significant lessons have been learnt about management of the disease. Additionally, significant improvements in morbidity and mortality of children affected with the disease have occurred because of the implementation of simple interventions. Unfortunately, in a country where the burden of disease is high compared to other countries, only approximately 40% of children born in Jamaica currently benefit from NBS. As such, the future of NBS for SCD in Jamaica lies in island-wide screening. There are challenges including the lack of appropriate governance and policy structures, the technology for high-volume processing and comprehensive care clinics throughout the island. On the other hand, the significant strides made in disease management, the strength and model of care of the Sickle Cell Unit, delicately balancing limited resources and increased survival cannot be disparaged. Therefore, consistent with the World Health Organization's recommendation, we are working toward achieving island-wide screening for SCD, to ensure equitable access to continued improvements in morbidity, mortality and quality of life.
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