From the Research
Sickle cell disease is prevalent in Saudi Arabia, with a significant variation in prevalence across different regions, ranging from 2% to 27%. The highest prevalence is found in the Eastern Province, particularly among the indigenous population, where carrier rates can reach up to 25% 1. This geographic distribution correlates with historical malaria endemicity, as the sickle cell trait provides protection against malaria.
Key Points
- The Southern and Western regions also show significant prevalence, while the Central region has lower rates 1.
- Saudi Arabia has implemented a national screening program for newborns and premarital couples to identify carriers and affected individuals early.
- The Saudi type of sickle cell disease often presents with a relatively milder clinical course compared to African variants, due to the presence of higher fetal hemoglobin levels and the common co-inheritance of alpha-thalassemia 2.
- However, patients still experience painful crises, acute chest syndrome, and other complications requiring comprehensive care.
- Management includes hydroxyurea therapy, pain management, infection prevention, and in severe cases, stem cell transplantation, which is increasingly available in specialized centers throughout the kingdom 3.
Regional Variations
- The prevalence of sickle cell disease varies significantly across different regions in Saudi Arabia, with the highest prevalence found in the Eastern region, followed by the Southern and Western regions 1.
- The Central and Northern regions have the lowest prevalence of sickle cell disease.
Management and Treatment
- Hydroxyurea therapy is a key component of managing sickle cell disease, and it has been shown to reduce the frequency of painful crises and blood transfusions 3.
- Pain management, infection prevention, and stem cell transplantation are also important aspects of comprehensive care for patients with sickle cell disease.