Sickle Cell Disease Control Prospects the Emerging Necessities Due to Impactful COVID-19 Pandemic in Sub Saharan Africa

Authors: Walter MO* and Oyiro P

DOI: 10.23880/hij-16000167

Volume 4, Issue 2

Abstract

Background: People with sickle cell disease (SCD) seek health care services quite often as the condition is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has imposed diversion of health care attentions and resources from the usual demands. COVID-19 cases have occupied health care facilities, providers as well as care planners. This has affected the already dire state of SCD management in Sub Sahara Africa (SSA). It is necessary to look at options that have been examined and demonstrated to reduce the prevalence of SCD. The purpose of this review is to present prospects and methods that could be useful in reducing prevalence of SCD. Methodology: The aims of the review were to document and discuss the methods that have been applied to reduce the prevalence of SCD so as to prospect for use in SSA. A review of the literature and targeting studies, presentations and information on control of SCD. The sources used were PubMed, PubMed Central, Google Scholar, and African Index Medicus. Bases of selection were any aspect of control of SCD by educational, counseling, awareness, prevention, testing and providing information. The prospects are explored, discussed and presented in this article.

Keywords: Education; Counseling; Sickle cell disease

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