Birth Prevalence of Sickle Cell Disease and County-Level Social Vulnerability - Sickle Cell Data Collection Program,...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Genetics
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a significant public health concern in the U.S.
• It is linked to severe health complications, reduced lifespan, and high healthcare costs.
• Understanding birth prevalence and social determinants is vital for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the birth prevalence of SCD in the U.S. from 2016-2020.
• To analyze the association between SCD birth prevalence and social vulnerability.
• To inform public health and healthcare planning for infants with SCD.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional analysis of newborn screening data from 11 states (2016-2020).
• Calculated crude and race-specific SCD birth prevalence.
• Assessed the distribution of mothers' residences within Social Vulnerability Index quartiles.

Main Results:

• The overall SCD birth prevalence was 4.83 per 10,000 live births.
• For non-Hispanic Black newborns, prevalence was 28.54 per 10,000.
• 67% of mothers lived in high/very high social vulnerability counties, particularly concerning racial/ethnic minority status and housing/transportation.

Conclusions:

• SCD birth prevalence is significantly higher in non-Hispanic Black infants and those residing in socially vulnerable areas.
• Interventions addressing social determinants like transportation, housing, and equity are essential.
• Findings support tailored public health strategies to improve care for children with SCD.