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Munung NS, Nnodu OE, Moru PO, Kalu AA, Impouma B, Treadwell MJ, Wonkam A. Looking ahead: ethical and social challenges of somatic gene therapy for sickle cell disease in Africa. Gene Ther 2024; 31:202-208. [PMID: 38012299 PMCID: PMC11090833 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-023-00429-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Somatic gene therapy will be one of the most exciting practices of genetic medicine in Africa and is primed to offer a "new life" for persons living with sickle cell disease (SCD). Recently, successful gene therapy trials for SCD in the USA have sparked a ray of hope within the SCD community in Africa. However, the high cost, estimated to exceed 1.5 million USD, continues to be a major concern for many stakeholders. While affordability is a key global health equity consideration, it is equally important to reflect on other ethical, legal and social issues (ELSIs) that may impact the responsible implementation of gene therapy for SCD in Africa. These include informed consent comprehension, risk of therapeutic misestimation and optimistic bias; priorities for SCD therapy trials; dearth of ethical and regulatory oversight for gene therapy in many African countries; identifying a favourable risk-benefit ratio; criteria for the selection of trial participants; decisional conflict in consent; standards of care; bounded justice; and genetic tourism. Given these ELSIs, we suggest that researchers, pharma, funders, global health agencies, ethics committees, science councils and SCD patient support/advocacy groups should work together to co-develop: (1) patient-centric governance for gene therapy in Africa, (2) public engagement and education materials, and (3) decision making toolkits for trial participants. It is also critical to establish harmonised ethical and regulatory frameworks for gene therapy in Africa, and for global health agencies to accelerate access to basic care for SCD in Africa, while simultaneously strengthening capacity for gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nchangwi Syntia Munung
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Obiageli E Nnodu
- Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease Research and Training (CESRTA), University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Patrick Ohiani Moru
- Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease Research and Training (CESRTA), University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Akpaka A Kalu
- World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Benido Impouma
- World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Marsha J Treadwell
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Ambroise Wonkam
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- McKusick-Nathans Institute & Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Munung NS, Treadwell M, Kamga KK, Dennis-Antwi J, Anie K, Bukini D, Makani J, Wonkam A. Caught between pity, explicit bias, and discrimination: a qualitative study on the impact of stigma on the quality of life of persons living with sickle cell disease in three African countries. Qual Life Res 2024; 33:423-432. [PMID: 37889387 PMCID: PMC10850006 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-023-03533-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder characterized by unpredictable episodes of acute pain and numerous health complications. Individuals with SCD often face stigma from the public, including perceptions that they are lazy or weak tending to exaggerate their pain crisis, which can profoundly impact their quality of life (QoL). METHODS In a qualitative phenomenological study conducted in Cameroon, Ghana, and Tanzania, we explored stakeholders' perceptions of SCD-related stigma using three analytical frameworks: Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory; The Health Stigma and Discriminatory Framework; and A Public Health Framework for Reducing Stigma. RESULTS The study reveals that SCD-related stigma is marked by prejudice, negative labelling and social discrimination, with derogatory terms such as sickler, ogbanje (one who comes and goes), sika besa (money will finish), ene mewu (I can die today, I can die tomorrow), vampire (one who consumes human blood), and Efiewura (landlord-of the hospital), commonly used to refer to individuals living with SCD. Drivers of stigma include frequent crises and hospitalizations, distinct physical features of individuals living with SCD, cultural misconceptions about SCD and its association with early mortality. Proposed strategies for mitigating stigma include public health education campaigns about SCD, integrating SCD into school curricula, healthcare worker training and community engagement. CONCLUSION The results highlight the importance of challenging stigmatizing narratives on SCD and recognizing that stigmatization represents a social injustice that significantly diminishes the QoL of individuals living with SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nchangwi Syntia Munung
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Marsha Treadwell
- Department of Pediatrics/Division of Hematology, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Karen Kengne Kamga
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Kofi Anie
- London Northwest University Healthcare (NHS) Trust, Harrow, UK
- Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Daima Bukini
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Julie Makani
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ambroise Wonkam
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- McKusick-Nathans Institute and Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
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Babu BV, Sharma Y, Surti SB, Bhat D, Sridevi P, Ranjit M, Sudhakar G, Sarmah J. Indian sickle cell disease registry for surveillance and patient management: Development and implementation. Int J Health Plann Manage 2023; 38:1483-1494. [PMID: 37340519 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In India, sickle cell disease (SCD) predominantly occurs in indigenous (tribal) people, who are about 104 million. However, screening and diagnosis seldom happen. This situation necessitates developing a comprehensive SCD care model, including a registry. This paper describes the development and implementation of the Indian SCD registry (ISCDR) in six tribal-dominated districts of India. The ISCDR was created in two components-(i) an Android-based mobile/tablet application, (ii) a dashboard/admin panel for patients' data management and retrieval. Data capture involves two electronic case report forms (CRF), that is, the primary form (CRF-1) and the repeat visit form (CRF-2). CRF-1 is completed as soon as the patient is found positive and captures the patient's information, including medical history, diagnosis, symptoms, precipitating factors, hospitalisation history and treatment received. Issues related to quality, security and data-sharing were addressed. After the screening system was functional, ISCDR was initiated. In 12 months, data of 324 SCD patients and 1771 carriers were entered. The study demonstrates the feasibility of establishing an SCD registry in India. It collects systematic longitudinal data on SCD patients, which are essential for programme planning and management. Further, it is feasible to scale up and integrate with other health management databases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bontha V Babu
- Division of Socio-Behavioural & Health Systems Research, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Yogita Sharma
- Division of Socio-Behavioural, Health Systems & Implementation Research, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Shaily B Surti
- Department of Community Medicine, Parul Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Parul University, Vadodara, India
| | - Deepa Bhat
- Department of Anatomy, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, India
| | - Parikipandla Sridevi
- Department of Biotechnology, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak, India
| | - Manoranjan Ranjit
- Indian Council of Medical Research-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Godi Sudhakar
- Department of Human Genetics, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, India
| | - Jatin Sarmah
- Department of Biotechnology, Bodoland University, Kokrajhar, India
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Page KM, Spellman SR, Logan BR. Worldwide sources of data in haematology: Importance of clinician-biostatistician collaboration. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2023; 36:101450. [PMID: 37353283 DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2023.101450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
The field of haematology has benefitted greatly from registry-based observational research. Medical and technical advances, changes in regulations and events such as the global pandemic is changing the landscape for registries. This review describes features of high-quality registries, statistical approaches and study design needed, an overview of worldwide hematologic registries, and how registries are evolving and expanding. The importance of collaborations between biostatisticians and haematologists in designing and conducting registry-related research is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Page
- Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
| | | | - Brent R Logan
- Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA; Division of Biostatistics, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), Milwaukee, WI, USA.
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Paintsil V, Ally M, Isa H, Anie KA, Mgaya J, Nkanyemka M, Nembaware V, Oppong-Mensah YG, Ndobho F, Chirande L, Makubi A, Nnodu O, Wonkam A, Makani J, Ohene-Frempong K. Development of multi-level standards of care recommendations for sickle cell disease: Experience from SickleInAfrica. Front Genet 2023; 13:1052179. [PMID: 36712852 PMCID: PMC9877224 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1052179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) causes significant morbidity and mortality particularly in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where it contributes to early childhood deaths. There is need to standardize treatment guidelines to help improve overall SCD patient health outcomes. We set out to review existing guidelines on SCD and to set minimum standards for management of SCD for the different referral levels of healthcare. Methods: A standards of care working group (SoC-WG) was established to develop the SoC recommendations. About 15 available SCD management guidelines and protocols were reviewed and themes extracted from them. The first draft was on chosen themes with 64 major headings and subtopics. Using a summarised WHO levels of referral document, we were able to get six different referral levels of healthcare. The highest referral level was the tertiary facilities whilst the lowest level was the home setting. Recommendations for SCD management for the regional, district, sub-districts, health posts and CHPs compounds were also drafted. Results: The results from this review yielded a guidelines document which had recommendations for management of SCD on 64 topics and subtopic for all the six (6) different referral levels. Discussions: Every child with SCD need to receive comprehensive care that is coordinated at each level. This recommendation is unique in terms of the availability of recommendations for different levels of care as compared to the traditional guidelines which is more focused at the tertiary levels. Patients can access care at any of the other lower referral hospitals and be managed with recommendations that are in keeping with institutional resources at that level. When such patients need care that requires expertise that is not available at that level, the recommendations will be to refer to the appropriate referral level where those expertise are available. This encourages patients to have good clinical care nearer their homes but also having access to specialist screening modalities and expertise at the tertiary hospitals if need be. With this, patient are not limited to a specific referral level when interventions cannot be instituted for them. Conclusion: This SoC recommendations document is a useful material that can be used for consistent standards of treatment in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Paintsil
- Department of Child Health, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana,Directorate of Child Health, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana,*Correspondence: Vivian Paintsil,
| | - Mwashungi Ally
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Hezekiah Isa
- Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease Research and Training (CESRTA), University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Kofi A. Anie
- London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, Imperial College London, London, England
| | - Josephine Mgaya
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Malula Nkanyemka
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Victoria Nembaware
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Flora Ndobho
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Lulu Chirande
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Abel Makubi
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Obiageli Nnodu
- Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease Research and Training (CESRTA), University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Ambroise Wonkam
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Julie Makani
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Chenik S, Noamen A, Bouslimi A, Mahfoudhi H, Hannachi S, Barakizou H, Mejri I, Znegui T, Fehri W. Evaluation of left ventricular systolic function in children with sickle cell anemia: contribution of 2D strain. F1000Res 2022; 11:1207. [PMID: 36531255 PMCID: PMC9732499 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.125345.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with sickle cell anemia (SCA) are at an increased risk of cardiovascular complications. The aim of this study was to assess the role of speckle tracking echocardiography in detecting subclinical myocardial damage in children with SCA. METHODS A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted at the echocardiography laboratory of the military hospital of Tunis between July and December 2018. Thirty patients with SCA were included. A control(C) group including 30 normally developing children was selected and matched to the SCA group by sex and age. We compared between the two groups: conventional echocardiographic parameters including cardiac output, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), thickness and the global longitudinal strain (GLS). The echocardiographic measurements were indexed according to body surface area. The left ventricular (LV) GLS association with clinical characteristics and echocardiographic parameters were also evaluated. RESULTS Patients and controls were matched for age and sex: the mean age was (11± 2years) in SCA group versus (12± 1 years) in C group with a sex ratio of (1.31 versus 1.27, respectively). Body surface area was comparable. LV hypertrophy and dilation were revealed in the SCA group, whereas measurements were normal in the C group. No significant differences were observed for cardiac output (p=0.4). LVEF were preserved in both groups. However, two-dimensional (2D) LVGLS was impaired in 46% of SCA group (n=14) with mean value of (-21%±3.07 vs -25%±2.98; p<0.01).In SCA group, impaired LVGLS was significantly associated with LV mass (r = - 0.399, p<0.01), LV tele diastolic diameter(r= -0.419, p<0.01) and left atrial volume (r= - 0.399, p< 0.04). In multivariate analysis, LV mass was the only independent factor. CONCLUSIONS In the present study, LVGLS measurement revealed subclinical LV systolic impairment in patients with SCA. Therefore, 2D strain could be beneficial to detect the natural history of LV dysfunction in SCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarra Chenik
- Cardiology department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia,
| | - Aymen Noamen
- Cardiology department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Abyr Bouslimi
- Cardiology department, Nantes Hospital,France,, Nantes, France
| | | | - Sadok Hannachi
- Pediatric department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Hager Barakizou
- Pediatric department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Islam Mejri
- Pneumology department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Tasnim Znegui
- Pneumology department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Wafa Fehri
- Cardiology department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
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Nnodu OE, Osei-Akoto A, Nembaware V, Kent J, Nwegbu M, Minja I, Mazandu GK, Makani J, Wonkam A. Skills Capacity Building For Health Care Services and Research Through the Sickle Pan African Research Consortium. Front Genet 2022; 13:805806. [PMID: 35783259 PMCID: PMC9240392 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.805806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Skills development, the building of human capacity, is key to any sustainable capacity building effort, however, such undertakings require adaptable and tailored strategies. The Sickle Pan-African Research Consortium (SPARCo) is building capacity in sickle cell disease (SCD) management and research in sub-Saharan Africa, including a multi-national SCD patient registry, this is underpinned by skills development activities in data, research, and SCD management. Method: The SPARCo Skills Working Group was set up with the mandate of coordinating skills development activities across the three SPARCo sites in Ghana, Nigeria and Tanzania. To tailor activities to the requirements of the consortium, a needs assessment was conducted at the start of the project which identified skills required for SCD management and research and catalogued existing external and internal training programmes. The needs assessment highlighted differences in skill levels between the sites and different organisational structures which required tailored skills development activities at individual, site and consortium levels. Strategy: Based on the needs and the resources available, different types of training activities were implemented: these included online, blended and face to face activities. In order to create a sustainable skills development programme, existing short, medium, long-term, on-job training activities were used wherever possible. World Sickle Cell Day (19th June) was leveraged for training and health education activities. Results: SPARCo has recorded 1,726 participants in skills development activities across the three sites. Skills have been enhanced in data management, SCD and research to underpin the core deliverables of SPARCo. Conclusion and Lessons Learned: The baseline needs assessments and continual review and adjustment were critical for development of an effective skill development strategy for the consortium. This adaptability was particularly valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sustainability plan leveraged existing programmes and activities and has created a pool of people with required skills for health care and research in SCD. To be effective, skills development programmes need to take into account existing capacity, training opportunities and local conditions. The model was applied to SCD and is adaptable to other skills development in healthcare and research in low and middle- income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Obiageli Eunice Nnodu
- University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
- Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease Research and Training, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
- Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
- *Correspondence: Obiageli Eunice Nnodu,
| | - Alex Osei-Akoto
- Department of Child Health, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Victoria Nembaware
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jill Kent
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Maxwell Nwegbu
- Department of Chemical Pathology, College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Irene Minja
- Department of Restorative Dentistry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Gaston Kuzamunu Mazandu
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Muizenberg, South Africa
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Julie Makani
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ambroise Wonkam
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Genetic Medicine, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Wonkam A, Munung NS, Dandara C, Esoh KK, Hanchard NA, Landoure G. Five Priorities of African Genomics Research: The Next Frontier. Annu Rev Genomics Hum Genet 2022; 23:499-521. [PMID: 35576571 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genom-111521-102452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
To embrace the prospects of accurately diagnosing thousands of monogenic conditions, predicting disease risks for complex traits or diseases, tailoring treatment to individuals' pharmacogenetic profiles, and potentially curing some diseases, research into African genomic variation is a scientific imperative. African genomes harbor millions of uncaptured variants accumulated over 300,000 years of modern humans' evolutionary history, with successive waves of admixture, migration, and natural selection combining with extensive ecological diversity to create a broad and exceptional genomic complexity. Harnessing African genomic complexity, therefore, will require sustained commitment and equitable collaboration from the scientific community and funding agencies. African governments must support academic public research and industrial partnerships that build the necessary genetic medicine workforce, utilize the emerging genomic big data to develop expertise in computer science and bioinformatics, and evolve national and global governance frameworks that recognize the ethical implications of data-driven genomic research and empower its application in African social, cultural, economic, and religious contexts. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Genomics and Human Genetics, Volume 23 is October 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambroise Wonkam
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; , , .,Current affiliation: McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine and Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA;
| | - Nchangwi S Munung
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; , ,
| | - Collet Dandara
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; , ,
| | - Kevin K Esoh
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; , ,
| | - Neil A Hanchard
- Center for Precision Health Research, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA;
| | - Guida Landoure
- Faculty of Medicine and Odontostomatology, University of Sciences, Techniques, and Technology of Bamako, Bamako, Mali;
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Paintsil V, Amuzu EX, Nyanor I, Asafo-Adjei E, Mohammed AR, Yawnumah SA, Oppong-Mensah YG, Nguah SB, Obeng P, Dogbe EE, Jonas M, Nembaware V, Mazandu G, Ohene-Frempong K, Wonkam A, Makani J, Ansong D, Osei-Akoto A. Establishing a Sickle Cell Disease Registry in Africa: Experience From the Sickle Pan-African Research Consortium, Kumasi-Ghana. Front Genet 2022; 13:802355. [PMID: 35281803 PMCID: PMC8908904 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.802355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common clinically significant hemoglobinopathy, characterized by painful episodes, anemia, high risk of infection, and other acute and chronic complications. In Africa, where the disease is most prevalent, large longitudinal data on patients and their outcomes are lacking. This article describes the experiences of the Kumasi Center for SCD at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KCSCD-KATH), a Sickle Pan-African Research Consortium (SPARCO) site and a SickleInAfrica Consortium member, in establishing a SCD registry for the evaluation of the outcomes of patients. It also provides a report of a preliminary analysis of the data. The process of developing the registry database involved comprehensive review of the center's SCD patient medical records, incorporating data elements developed by the SickleInAfrica Consortium and obtaining ethical clearance from the local Institutional Review Board. From December 2017 to March 2020, 3,148 SCD patients were enrolled into the SCD registry. Enrollment was during the SCD outpatient clinic visits or through home visits. A significant proportion of the patients was from the newborn screening cohort (50.3%) and was males (52.9%). SCD-SS, SCD-SC, and Sβ +thalassemia were seen in 67.2, 32.5, and 0.3% patients, respectively. The majority of the patients were in a steady state at enrollment; however, some were enrolled after discharge for an acute illness admission. The top two clinical diagnoses for SCD-SS patients were sickle cell painful events and acute anemia secondary to hyperhemolysis with incidence rates of 141.86 per 10,000 person months of observation (PMO) and 32.74 per 10,000 PMO, respectively. In SCD-SC patients, the top two diagnoses were sickle cell painful events and avascular necrosis with incidence rates of 203.09 per 10,000 PMO and 21.19 per 10,000 PMO, respectively. The SPARCO Kumasi site has developed skills and infrastructure to design, manage, and analyze data in the SCD registry. The newborn screening program and alternative recruitment methods such as radio announcement and home visits for defaulting patients were the key steps taken in enrolling patients into the registry. The registry will provide longitudinal data that will help improve knowledge of SCD in Ghana and Africa through research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Paintsil
- Directorate of Child Health-Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.,Department of Child Health-Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Evans Xorse Amuzu
- Directorate of Child Health-Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Isaac Nyanor
- Directorate of Child Health-Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | | | | | - Samuel Blay Nguah
- Directorate of Child Health-Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.,Department of Child Health-Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Paul Obeng
- Directorate of Child Health-Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.,Department of Child Health-Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Elliot Eli Dogbe
- Directorate of Child Health-Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Mario Jonas
- Department of Pathology, Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Victoria Nembaware
- Department of Pathology, Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gaston Mazandu
- Department of Pathology, Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Ambroise Wonkam
- Department of Pathology, Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Julie Makani
- SPARCo, Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar Es Salam, Tanzania
| | - Daniel Ansong
- Directorate of Child Health-Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.,Department of Child Health-Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Alex Osei-Akoto
- Directorate of Child Health-Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.,Department of Child Health-Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kumasi, Ghana
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10
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Narh CT, Der J, Ofosu A, Blettner M, Wollschlaeger D. Time trends, sociodemographic and health factors associated with discharge and length of stay of hospitalised patients with sickle cell disease in Ghana: a retrospective analysis of national routine health database. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e048407. [PMID: 34610933 PMCID: PMC8493906 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-048407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) are prone to multiple episodes resulting in frequent hospital visits. We determined the time trends, sociodemographic and health factors associated with length of stay (LoS) for patients with SCD in Ghana. DESIGN, PARTICIPANTS, SETTING We retrospectively analysed SCD hospitalisation records of 22 680 patients from a nationwide database of the Ghana Health Service from 2012 to 2017. OUTCOME MEASURES Factors associated with LoS were estimated using Cox regression, while the cumulative incidence of being discharged alive was estimated with in-hospital death as a competing risk. RESULTS Patients admitted for SCD over 6 years constituted 22 680 (0.8%) of nearly 3 million admissions. The median age and LoS for the patients were 16 years (IQR=8-24) and 3 days (IQR=2-4), representing 14 202 (62.6%) of the patients discharged alive by the third day. Patients with sickle cell anaemia (6139, 52.6%) with a crisis were more frequent than those without a crisis. Increasing age was associated with shorter LoS when comparing age groups 10-14 years (HR=1.08, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.14) and 25-29 years (HR=1.27, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.37) to patients aged 0-4 years. Patients with comorbidities had a longer LoS compared with those without (HR=0.88, 95% CI 0.86 to 0.90). CONCLUSION This is the largest study to date documenting factors associated with LoS for patients admitted for SCD. The association of younger age with increased LoS supports recent calls for early SCD screening, especially newborns. The emerging trends and factors accounting for SCD admission require a multisector approach as these patients already experience frequent episodes of pain and hospital visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clement Tetteh Narh
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Volta Region, Ghana
- Biostatistics, Johannes-Gutenberg Universitat Mainz Institut für Medizinische Biometrie Epidemiologie und Informatik, Mainz, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany
| | - Joyce Der
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Anthony Ofosu
- Policy, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Division (PPMED), Ghana Health Service, Accra, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | - Maria Blettner
- Radiation Epidemiology, Johannes-Gutenberg Universitat Mainz Institut für Medizinische Biometrie Epidemiologie und Informatik, Mainz, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany
| | - Daniel Wollschlaeger
- Radiation Epidemiology, Johannes-Gutenberg Universitat Mainz Institut für Medizinische Biometrie Epidemiologie und Informatik, Mainz, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany
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11
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Urio F, Nkya S, Rooks H, Mgaya JA, Masamu U, Zozimus Sangeda R, Mmbando BP, Brumat M, Mselle T, Menzel S, Luzzatto L, Makani J. F cell numbers are associated with an X-linked genetic polymorphism and correlate with haematological parameters in patients with sickle cell disease. Br J Haematol 2020; 191:888-896. [PMID: 33073380 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.17102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) with high fetal haemoglobin (HbF) tend to have a lower incidence of complications and longer survival due to inhibition of deoxyhaemoglobin S (HbS) polymerisation by HbF. HbF-containing cells, namely F cells, are strongly influenced by genetic factors. We measured the percentage of F cells (Fcells%) in 222 patients with SCD to evaluate the association of (i) Fcells% with genetic HbF-modifier variants and (ii) Fcells% with haematological parameters. There was a different distribution of Fcells% in females compared to males. The association of the B-cell lymphoma/leukaemia 11A (BCL11A) locus with Fcells% (β = 8·238; P < 0·001) and with HbF% (β = 2·490; P < 0·001) was significant. All red cell parameters except for Hb and mean corpuscular Hb concentration levels in males and females were significantly different. The Fcells% was positively associated with mean cell Hb, mean cell volume and reticulocytes. To explain the significant gender difference in Fcells%, we tested for associations with single nucleotide polymorphisms on the X chromosomal region Xp22.2, where a genetic determinant of HbF had been previously hypothesised. We found in males a significant association with a SNP in FERM and PDZ domain-containing protein 4 (FRMPD4) and adjacent to male-specific lethal complex subunit 3 (MSL3). Thus, we have identified an X-linked locus that could account for a significant fraction of the Fcells% variation in patients with SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Urio
- Muhimbili Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Biochemistry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Siana Nkya
- Muhimbili Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dar es salaam University College of Education, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Helen Rooks
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Josephine A Mgaya
- Muhimbili Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Upendo Masamu
- Muhimbili Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Raphael Zozimus Sangeda
- Muhimbili Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Bruno P Mmbando
- Muhimbili Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga, Tanzania
| | - Marco Brumat
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Ted Mselle
- Department of Biochemistry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Stephan Menzel
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Lucio Luzzatto
- Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Julie Makani
- Muhimbili Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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12
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Nembaware V, Mazandu GK, Hotchkiss J, Safari Serufuri JM, Kent J, Kengne AP, Anie K, Munung NS, Bukini D, Bitoungui VJN, Munube D, Chirwa U, Chunda-Liyoka C, Jonathan A, Flor-Park MV, Esoh KK, Jonas M, Mnika K, Oosterwyk C, Masamu U, Morrice J, Uwineza A, Nguweneza A, Banda K, Nyanor I, Adjei DN, Siebu NE, Nkanyemka M, Kuona P, Tayo BO, Campbell A, Oron AP, Nnodu OE, Painstil V, Makani J, Mulder N, Wonkam A. The Sickle Cell Disease Ontology: Enabling Collaborative Research and Co-Designing of New Planetary Health Applications. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2020; 24:559-567. [PMID: 33021900 PMCID: PMC7549008 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2020.0153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is one of the most common blood disorders impacting planetary health. Over 300,000 newborns are diagnosed with SCD each year globally, with an increasing trend. The sickle cell disease ontology (SCDO) is the most comprehensive multidisciplinary SCD knowledge portal. The SCDO was collaboratively developed by the SCDO working group, which includes experts in SCD and data standards from across the globe. This expert review presents highlights and lessons learned from the fourth SCDO workshop that marked the beginning of applications toward planetary health impact, and with an eye to empower and cultivate multisite SCD collaborative research. The workshop was organized by the Sickle Africa Data Coordinating Center (SADaCC) and attended by 44 participants from 14 countries, with 2 participants connecting remotely. Notably, from the standpoint of democratizing and innovating scientific meeting design, an SCD patient advocate also presented at the workshop, giving a broader real-life perspective on patients' aspirations, needs, and challenges. A major component of the workshop was new approaches to harness SCDO to harmonize data elements used by different studies. This was facilitated by a web-based platform onto which participants uploaded data elements from previous or ongoing SCD-relevant research studies before the workshop, making multisite collaborative research studies based on existing SCD data possible, including multisite cohort, SCD global clinical trials, and SCD community engagement approaches. Trainees presented proposals for systematic literature reviews in key SCD research areas. This expert review emphasizes potential and prospects of SCDO-enabled data standards and harmonization to facilitate large-scale global SCD collaborative initiatives. As the fields of public and global health continue to broaden toward planetary health, the SCDO is well poised to play a prominent role to decipher SCD pathophysiology further, and co-design diagnostics and therapeutics innovation in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Nembaware
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gaston K Mazandu
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jade Hotchkiss
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Jill Kent
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Andre Pascal Kengne
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kofi Anie
- London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust and Imperial College London, London, UK.,Sickle Cell Disease Genomics Network of Africa (SickleGenAfrica), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Nchangwi Syntia Munung
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Daima Bukini
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Valentina Josiane Ngo Bitoungui
- Department of Microbiology, Hematology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Deogratias Munube
- Department of Paediatric and Child Health, Makerere University/Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Uzima Chirwa
- University Teaching Hospitals-Children's Hospital, University of Zambia, School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Catherine Chunda-Liyoka
- University Teaching Hospitals-Children's Hospital, University of Zambia, School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Agnes Jonathan
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Miriam V Flor-Park
- Onco-hematology Unit, Instituto da Criança, Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kevin Kum Esoh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Juja, Kenya
| | - Mario Jonas
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Khuthala Mnika
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Chandré Oosterwyk
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Upendo Masamu
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jack Morrice
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Annette Uwineza
- University of Rwanda, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Arthemon Nguweneza
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kambe Banda
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Isaac Nyanor
- Kumasi Centre for Sickle Cell Disease, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - David Nana Adjei
- Sickle Cell Disease Genomics Network of Africa (SickleGenAfrica), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Nathan Edward Siebu
- Sickle Cell Disease Genomics Network of Africa (SickleGenAfrica), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Malula Nkanyemka
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Patience Kuona
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Bamidele O Tayo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Parkinson School of Health Sciences and Public Health, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Andrew Campbell
- Division of Hematology, Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Medical Center, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Assaf P Oron
- Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, Institute for Disease Modeling, Bellevue, Washington, USA
| | - Obiageli E Nnodu
- Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease Research and Training, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Vivian Painstil
- Department of Child Health, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Julie Makani
- Sickle Cell Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Nicola Mulder
- Computational Biology Division, Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ambroise Wonkam
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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13
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Oron AP, Chao DL, Ezeanolue EE, Ezenwa LN, Piel FB, Ojogun OT, Uyoga S, Williams TN, Nnodu OE. Caring for Africa's sickle cell children: will we rise to the challenge? BMC Med 2020; 18:92. [PMID: 32340612 PMCID: PMC7187492 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-020-01557-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most of the world's sickle cell disease (SCD) burden is in Africa, where it is a major contributor to child morbidity and mortality. Despite the low cost of many preventive SCD interventions, insufficient resources have been allocated, and progress in alleviating the SCD burden has lagged behind other public-health efforts in Africa. The recent announcement of massive new funding for research into curative SCD therapies is encouraging in the long term, but over the next few decades, it is unlikely to help Africa's SCD children substantially. MAIN DISCUSSION A major barrier to progress has been the absence of large-scale early-life screening. Most SCD deaths in Africa probably occur before cases are even diagnosed. In the last few years, novel inexpensive SCD point-of-care test kits have become widely available and have been deployed successfully in African field settings. These kits could potentially enable universal early SCD screening. Other recent developments are the expansion of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine towards near-universal coverage, and the demonstrated safety, efficacy, and increasing availability and affordability of hydroxyurea across the continent. Most elements of standard healthcare for SCD children that are already proven to work in the West, could and should now be implemented at scale in Africa. National and continental SCD research and care networks in Africa have also made substantial progress, assembling care guidelines and enabling the deployment and scale-up of SCD public-health systems. Substantial logistical, cultural, and awareness barriers remain, but with sufficient financial and political will, similar barriers have already been overcome in efforts to control other diseases in Africa. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS Despite remaining challenges, several high-SCD-burden African countries have the political will and infrastructure for the rapid implementation and scale-up of comprehensive SCD childcare programs. A globally funded effort starting with these countries and expanding elsewhere in Africa and to other high-burden countries, including India, could transform the lives of SCD children worldwide and help countries to attain their Sustainable Development Goals. This endeavor would also require ongoing research focused on the unique needs and challenges of SCD patients, and children in particular, in regions of high prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assaf P Oron
- Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, Institute for Disease Modeling, Bellevue, WA, USA
| | - Dennis L Chao
- Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, Institute for Disease Modeling, Bellevue, WA, USA
| | - Echezona E Ezeanolue
- Healthy Sunrise Foundation, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | | | - Frédéric B Piel
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Sophie Uyoga
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, PO Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Obiageli E Nnodu
- Centre of Excellence for Sickle Cell Disease Research & Training, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
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