Publications
SickleCare_ASCAT_Evidence from regional newborn and under_five screening program
Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common life-threatening monogenic disorder globally (1). Tanzania is the fifth-highest burden country for SCD, with prevalence of SCD (HbSS) ranging between 0.8% – 1.4%, and prevalence of sickle cell trait (HbAS) ranging from 13% in coastal regions to 20% in Lake Zone regions (2). Without comprehensive care, SCD is associated with high morbidity and mortality (1-3), accounting for 7% of deaths among children under five in Tanzania (2). Early diagnosis and enrolnment into comprehensive care significantly reduce the mortality and improve the health-related outcomes among children with SCD.