Burden of sickle cell anemia in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Sickle Cell Anemia (SCA) is a significant genetic disorder in Africa; however, comprehensive data on its prevalence and geographic distribution remain limited. We aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of SCA (HbSS) in African populations and examine regional, demographic, and temporal variations from 1994-2024.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and BASE databases for studies reporting SCA prevalence in African populations. Screening and quality assessments were performed using JBI tools. A random-effects meta-analysis with logit transformation was performed, with subgroup analyses by region, age, sex, and study design. Meta-regression explored heterogeneity sources, including geographic region, age category, diagnostic method,

SUBMITTER: Jonani B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12646443 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature