Sicklers surviving childhood in Tanzania

Sixty two cases of sickling haemoglobinopathy have been admitted and specially studied between 1973 and 1977 in the Bugando Hospital, Mwanza, Tanzania. Presenting symptoms are described. The problems of recognition in the medical diaspora and of management are considered. It is expected that with improving regional health facilities more cases will survive childhood but also will cause special difficulties in adequate care. It is pleaded that because of the ubiquity of the HbS gene in Tanzania sufficient priority is given to the affected in planning health services in Tanzania.