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Experiences and Management Practices of Individuals Living with Sickle Cell Anemia in Nigeria

Home > 2026, Vol. 12 No. 2 > Experiences and Management Practices of Individuals Living with Sickle Cell Anemia in Nigeria
Published: August 14, 2026 | Views: 39
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Authors

Abidemi Esther Ojo, Regina Oghenevwede Golagha, Olugbenga Anthony Ojo, Adejare Rasaq Oloyede, Oluwabusola Oluwayemi Adegbesan, and Eniola Akindele

DOI Number
https://doi.org/10.15415/jmrh.2026.122005
Keywords
Sickle cell anemia, HbSS genotype, Stigma, Frequent clinical complications

Abstract

Background: Sickle cell anemia (SCA) remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, where it significantly affects the physical, emotional, and social well-being of affected individuals. Despite advancements in medical care, many patients continue to face challenges related to disease management and societal perceptions.

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the experiences and management practices of individuals living with SCA in Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among individuals living with sickle cell anemia in Nigeria using a structured online questionnaire distributed through WhatsApp support groups. Ethical approval was obtained from the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria. A voluntary participant recruitment approach was employed, and data collected included socio-demographic characteristics, disease experiences, pain triggers, and management practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS and Microsoft Excel.

Result: Out of 307 individuals contacted, 66 respondents completed the survey (21.5% response rate). Most respondents were female (69.6%), aged 31-40 years (51.5%), and had the HbSS genotype (72.7%). Frequent pain crises were reported by 42.4% of participants, while 69.7% stated that sickle cell disease had negatively affected their life pursuits. Societal discrimination was experienced by 68.1% of respondents. Malaria was the most commonly reported trigger of pain crises (34%), followed by stress and extremely cold weather. Medication was the most common management strategy (47.0%), while hospital visitation was the preferred approach during crises (59%).

Conclusion: The study highlights the complex realities of living with SCA in Nigeria, characterized by frequent clinical complications, diverse management practices, and substantial psychosocial burdens.

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How to Cite

Abidemi Esther Ojo, Regina Oghenevwede Golagha, Olugbenga Anthony Ojo, Adejare Rasaq Oloyede, Oluwabusola Oluwayemi Adegbesan, and Eniola Akindele. Experiences and Management Practices of Individuals Living with Sickle Cell Anemia in Nigeria. J. Multidiscip. Res. Healthcare. 2026, 12, 57-66
Experiences and Management Practices of Individuals Living with Sickle Cell Anemia in Nigeria

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RNI No.CHAENG/2014/57978

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