Impact of Sickle Cell Disease on Affected Individuals in Nigeria: A Critical Review

Abstract

Sickle cell disease is an autosomal recessive disorder of the beta-globin gene, with resultant deformation of the red blood cells and variable clinical outcomes. Nigeria is recognised as the country with the highest burden of sickle cell disease globally. This study aimed at critically reviewing available literature on impact of sickle cell disease in Nigeria. A literature search was carried out on four databases, and a total of 116 articles that met the inclusion criteria were included in the critical review. It was observed that majority of the studies were carried out in South-Western part of Nigeria (47.4%), whilst the North-East had the least number of studies undertaken in this area, more than a quarter of the studies (27.6%) were related to hematologic and serologic screening. Major themes that emerged from this review were morbidity and mortality; prevalence of sickle cell disease; issues relating to blood transfusion; psychosocial impact; and anatomical dysfunction in sickle cell disease. Intervention programs from both government and non-governmental organizations aimed at reducing the burden of sickle cell disease and its socio-economic impact were identified as key to strategies aimed at overcoming challenges associated with the disease. Findings from this study also revealed that education and awareness interventions were central to reducing the prevalence of sickle cell disease in this setting.

Investigation of parental socioeconomic status as a determinant of dietary habits and disease severity of sickle cell disease children

“…The role of SES in rate of 'under 5' mortality rate among SCD pediatric patients is not clearly defined and whether it plays a role in lower frequency of SCD among those in low SES needs to be verified. According to Adigwe et al [28] and Adigwe [29] the prevalence of SCD is 2-3% with adult prevalence of 0.05% in Nigeria. SCD is a significant contributor to Nigeria's 'under five' mortality figures.…”

Factors Influencing the Management of Musculoskeletal Pain among Children with Sickle Cell Disease in Western Kenya

“…In another study, Amusa et al (2021) found that higher levels of pain were associated with poor pain management outcomes. Children who believed that their pain was related to sickle cell anemia experienced more musculoskeletal pain, frequent pain episodes, and a lower quality of life (Adigwe et al, 2023). Joseph et al (2021) found that coping strategies for some factors, like praying, had better pain management outcomes.…”