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Platelet counts in healthy adult Sierra Leoneans

S M Gevao1, E Pabs-Garnon, A C Williams

  • 1College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, P.M.B., Freetown, Sierra Leone.

Insights

This study determined normal platelet counts in 100 Sierra Leoneans, finding a mean of 197 x 10(9)/L. Results suggest African platelet counts are lower than Caucasian reference ranges.

Area of Science:

  • Hematology
  • Public Health
  • African Health Studies

Background:

  • Platelet count variations exist across different ethnic groups.
  • Establishing population-specific reference ranges is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the normal range of platelet counts in a healthy Sierra Leonean population.
  • To compare these findings with existing data from other African and Caucasian populations.

Main Methods:

  • Blood samples were collected from 100 healthy individuals (56 males, 44 females) in Sierra Leone.
  • Platelet counts were measured using standard laboratory techniques.
  • Statistical analysis was performed to determine the mean, standard deviation, and range.

Main Results:

  • The mean platelet count was 197 x 10(9)/L (SD = 25 x 10(9)/L).
  • The observed range for platelet counts was 115-335 x 10(9)/L.
  • Findings were comparable to previous studies in other African countries.

Conclusions:

  • The normal platelet count in Sierra Leoneans is lower than typically reported for Caucasian populations.
  • This study contributes to establishing African-specific hematological reference ranges.

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