Mortality by sickle cell disease in Brazil

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a significant global health concern.
• Early diagnosis and management strategies are available but mortality remains high worldwide.
• Characterizing SCD mortality in Brazil is essential for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze current mortality patterns associated with sickle cell disease in Brazil.
• To identify research gaps in SCD mortality studies within the Brazilian context.
• To inform public health strategies for SCD patient care.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted on the MEDLINE database.
• Keywords used included 'mortality', 'sickle cell disease', and 'Brazil'.
• Studies published within the last five years were included.

Main Results:

• Eight studies on SCD mortality were identified across five Brazilian states.
• The majority of deaths occurred in individuals with sickle cell anemia, the most common and severe genotype.
• Minas Gerais was the state with the highest number of published SCD mortality studies.

Conclusions:

• There is a paucity of published research on sickle cell disease mortality in Brazil.
• Further studies are needed to profile gene carriers and improve healthcare strategies.
• Despite advancements, SCD continues to contribute significantly to mortality globally and in Brazil.