[Sickle cell test: for all ethnic minorities?].

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Hematology

Context:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) is traditionally associated with individuals of Black African descent.
• The sickle cell gene (HBS) has been identified in non-negroid populations, such as Turkish immigrants in the Netherlands.

Purpose:

• To highlight the presence of the sickle cell gene in diverse ethnic groups.
• To advocate for expanded pre-operative screening for HBS in all immigrant children, irrespective of their ethnic background.

Summary:

• Sickle cell disease and trait are not exclusive to Black populations.
• Detection of the sickle cell gene in Turkish immigrants underscores the need for broader screening.
• The study suggests that other ethnic minority groups may also carry the HBS gene.

Impact:

• Increased awareness of sickle cell disease prevalence across diverse populations.
• Implementation of inclusive pre-operative HBS screening protocols for all immigrant children.
• Improved early diagnosis and management of sickle cell conditions in previously unscreened ethnic groups.