Sickle cell retinopathy among Ghanaian high school students: a school-based screening.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Sickle cell disease (SCD) remains a significant health concern, particularly in Ghana and Sub-Saharan African countries. School-based ocular screenings provide a unique opportunity for early detection of sickle cell retinopathy (SCR).

Methods

Students from five major schools in the Kumasi Metropolitan District of Ghana were included. Research assistants educated students on SCD and type 1 diabetes (T1DM) during school-wide assemblies, emphasising destigmatisation and vision health. Students completed questionnaires to self-report SCD or T1DM. Those who self-reported underwent in-depth interviews and dilated fundus exams (DFE).

Results

Of 17 987 total student population, 8168 students completed the survey (45.4% response rate) of which 2.4% of students wer

SUBMITTER: Sedhom J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11664335 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature