PREVALENCE OF SICKLE CELL DISEASE AMONG CHILDREN UNDER 10 YEARS ADMITTED AT MBALE REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL BETWEEN MAY 2014 AND JULY 2014.

ABSTRACT

Sickle cell disease is a major public health problem in the Sub-Saharan Africa contributing

significantly to morbidity and mortality in children under ten years. SCA accounts for

approximately 16.2% of all paediatric deaths in Uganda. The pattern of SCD inheritance,

however, predicts likely changes in the prevalence and distribution of the SCD. The objective

of the study therefore was to establish the current prevalence oof sickle cell disease as well as

associated factors among children under ten years admitted to Mbale Regional Referral

Hospital pediatric unit.

The study was descriptive and cross sectional in which both qualitative and quantitative

methods were used for data collection.

The ward admission book was used as a basis to capture those admitted and fit into the specified

age than ten years.

In addition questionnaire was admitted to the ward stuff and to the in charge to obtain a little

more data to find out how the children presented before being admitted to the hospital, any

other information relevant to the study including common disease and any preventative

services the centre offers to the community around.

Data was analysed using Microsoft excel, discussed and conclusions made to the findings of

the study. The dissertation will thereafter be submitted to the KIU examination board.

A total number of 6790 patients records were analysed, most of them, 53% being female.

Majority of the patients were Bagisu followed by the Bagwere and a small number of the other

tribes.

The study showed that the prevalence of SCD (Haemoglobin ss) was 2.2% being higher than

the 2010 studies which showed a prevalence of 1.7%.

SCD exists in Mbale Regional Referral Hospital in quite significant numbers to warrant the

ministry of health and the district health service team’s action.