Enuresis in sickle cell disease. I. Prevalence studies

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Hematology
• Public Health

Background:

• Enuresis, or bedwetting, is a common concern in childhood.
• Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is a prevalent genetic blood disorder, particularly in certain populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of enuresis in Nigerian children diagnosed with sickle cell anaemia.
• To compare enuresis rates between children with SCA and age-matched controls without sickle haemoglobinopathy.

Main Methods:

• A parental interview-based study was conducted.
• Participants included 209 Nigerian children with SCA (steady state) and 200 controls, aged 2–20 years.
• Enuresis prevalence was assessed in both groups.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of enuresis was significantly higher in children with SCA (41.6%) compared to controls (18.5%).
• This difference remained significant in children aged 4 years and older (36.8% vs. 21%).
• A male preponderance in enuretic controls aged 4+ was observed, but not in SCA subjects.

Conclusions:

• Children with sickle cell anaemia exhibit a substantially increased risk of enuresis.
• Enuresis may be a more frequent complication in pediatric SCA than previously recognized.
• Further research into the mechanisms linking SCA and enuresis is warranted.