The prevalence of sickle cell disease in Abu-AL-Khasib district of southern Iraq

At attempt was made to estimate the prevalence of sickle cell disease among the primary school children in Abul-al-Khasib district of southern Iraq which is known for a relatively high prevalence. Examination of 706 children in the age group of 10 to 12 years from 10 out of 20 schools randomly chosen in four villages of Abu-al-Khasib showed an overall prevalence rate of 16% as compared to 2.5% seen in a control population of 525 children belonging to five urban schools in Basrah. Sickle cell trait was evident in 13.3% of the cases. Sickledex was used for initial testing and those showing positive sickling phenomenon were confirmed by cellulose acetate haemoglobin electrophoresis. The need for introducing early screening measures as well as marriage/genetic counselling as part of the overall health and welfare services in stressed.