Screening for sickle-cell trait in the emergency department

Area of Science:

• Medical Genetics
• Public Health
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Sickle-cell anemia is a prevalent genetic blood disorder, particularly in individuals of African descent.
• Awareness of sickle-cell anemia and personal trait status is crucial for reproductive planning and disease management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess awareness of sickle-cell anemia among young Black adults in an emergency department (ED).
• To determine the proportion of these patients who know their sickle-cell trait status.

Main Methods:

• Interviews were conducted with 147 Black patients in an urban university hospital ED.
• Participants were assessed for knowledge of sickle-cell anemia and their own trait status.
• Sickle-cell trait screening was offered to all participants.

Main Results:

• 98% of patients had heard of sickle-cell anemia, and 73% recognized it as genetic.
• Only 31% knew their own sickle-cell trait status.
• Women were more likely than men to know their status; 4% tested positive for the trait.

Conclusions:

• While awareness of sickle-cell anemia is high among young Black adults, knowledge of personal trait status is low.
• ED physicians should inquire about and offer sickle-cell trait screening or referral for at-risk patients.
• Improved primary care access is needed to enhance routine screening and genetic counseling.