Published October 21, 2021 | Version v1
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The Impact of COVID-19 on Sickle Cell Disorder In Nigeria: A Call To Action

Authors/Creators

  • 1. Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria
  • 2. Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria

Description

ABSTRACTThe emergence of SARs-CoV-2 and the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has brought global healthcare systems into sharp focus and highlighted the hurdles faced in the provision of and access to quality health care services. This is amplified in low and middle-income countries that face policy, funding, personnel and infrastructural deficit amongst others. Vulnerable populations such as individuals with sickle cell disorders and other chronic diseases show a significant risk of acquiring COVID-19 as well as confounding diagnosis with symptom overlaps from complications of pre-existing conditions. The utilization of angiotensin-converting enzyme type 2 (ACE2) receptors as viral entry mechanisms may contribute to the multi-systemic clinical presentation and to disease severity. The coexistence of SCD with co-morbidities like asthma, kidney disease, diabetes and hypertension is linked with increased risk of mortality. Neutrophilia, lymphopenia, elevated D-dimer, creatinine, C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and liver enzymes are associated with poor disease outcomes. The burden placed by COVID-19 on already strained health systems creates inequities in health care access which may be mitigated by translational policies, multi-sectorial reform backed by government and bi- or multilateral relationships. The unprecedented rollout of vaccines has presented a global opportunity to get ahead of the disease curve and should be targeted at priority groups such as individuals with pre-existing conditions including SCD.

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