Awareness about Sickle Cell Disorders amongst the Population in Central India – A Cross Sectional Study

Introduction:Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD), marked by abnormal haemoglobin Hb S,
causes rigid, sickle-shaped erythrocytes, blocking circulation and leading to multiorgan damage. Globally, over 3,00,000 infants are born with SCD every year, with
India ranking second in prevalence, affecting 20 million people. While advanced
nations benefit from neonatal screenings and immunization, low-income regions,
including rural India, face high childhood mortality rates (50-80%). Lack of awareness,
delayed diagnosis, and inadequate management contribute to elevated mortality,
particularly in less-educated rural and tribal areas. This study aims to evaluate public
awareness of SCD to address the pressing issue in India.
Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of both known cases of Sickle
Cell Disorder (SCD) and non-SCD individuals. A total of 169 consenting individuals
were interviewed using a structured validated questionnaire.
Results: We observed lack of awareness regarding Sickle Cell Disorders (SCD) in 40%
of the participants, while 60% were found to be aware of its existence.
Conclusion: The study reveals a notable lack of awareness about Sickle Cell Disorder
(SCD), including its causes, diagnosis, and treatment. Given the substantial
contribution of central India to annual SCD cases, addressing these awareness gaps is
imperative. Targeted educational efforts, screenings and awareness campaigns are vital
to bridging this knowledge deficit and improving outcomes in the region.