Sickle cell disease in western Sudan: genetic epidemiology and predictors of knowledge attitude and practices.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the epidemiology of sickle cell disease (SCD) and determinants of knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) towards SCD in western Kordofan State, Sudan. METHODS: A community-based, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in three towns. Three hundred and seventy-two households were polled, and blood samples for haemoglobin phenotyping were collected from 1116 individuals. Sociodemographic, socio-economic and KAP data were collected using investigator-administered questionnaires. Descriptive, frequency distribution and multiple regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: About 50.9% of the study population were Misseriya tribes. Consanguineous marriages were reported by 67.5% of the households. The highest percentage of homozygous SCD was 2.8% among children under 5 years of age. About 24.9% were carriers of HbS allele (HbAS). HbS allele frequency was highest in children aged 5-11 years (18.3%, CI: 13.7-22.9%) and lowest in males >15 years old (12.0%, CI: 6.1-17.9%). The average HbS frequency across all age groups was 14.5% (95% CI: 12.2-16.8%). The most frequent ß-globin gene cluster haplotype was the Cameroon (30.8%), followed by the Benin (21.8%), the Senegal (12.8%) and the Bantu (2.2%) haplotypes. About 17.0% of all-cause child deaths were due to SCD. The estimated change in log odds of having the SS genotype per year increase in age was (-) 0.0058 (95% CI -0.0359, 0.0242). This represents a non-statistically significant 2.9% increase in 5-year mortality for individuals with the SS genotype relative to those with AS and AA genotypes. About 46.9% of the households had poor knowledge, 26.1% had satisfactory knowledge, and 26.9% had good knowledge about sickle cell disease. Mothers' and fathers' educational levels were significant predictors of good knowledge about SCD (P < 0.05). About 48.0% had a satisfactory attitude towards sickle cell disease while 30.7% had poor attitude and only 21.3 showed good attitudes. Poor knowledge about SCD and low socio-economic status were the strongest positive predictors of poor attitude and practices towards SCD (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Sickle cell disease is a major health problem in West Kordofan, Sudan. Knowledge, attitude and practices towards the disease are not satisfactory. The development of public health programs is highly recommended to control and manage SCD in western parts of Sudan.

Plasmodium falciparum infection in febrile Congolese children: prevalence of clinical malaria 10 years after introduction of artemisinin-combination therapies.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the proportion of malaria infection in febrile children consulting a paediatric hospital in Brazzaville, to determine the prevalence of submicroscopic malaria infection, to characterise Plasmodium falciparum infection and compare the prevalence of uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria according to haemoglobin profiles. METHODS: Blood samples were collected from children aged <10 years with an axillary temperature ≥37.5 °C consulting the paediatric ward of Marien Ngouabi Hospital in Brazzaville. Parasite density was determined and all samples were screened for P. falciparum by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the P. falciparum msp-2 marker to detect submicroscopic infections and characterise P. falciparum infection. Sickle cell trait was screened by PCR. RESULTS: A total of 229 children with fever were recruited, of whom 10% were diagnosed with uncomplicated malaria and 21% with submicroscopic infection. The mean parasite density in children with uncomplicated malaria was 42 824 parasites/µl of blood. The multiplicity of infection (MOI) was 1.59 in children with uncomplicated malaria and 1.69 in children with submicroscopic infection. The mean haemoglobin level was 10.1 ± 1.7 for children with uncomplicated malaria and 12.0 ± 8.6 for children with submicroscopic infection. About 13% of the children harboured the sickle cell trait (HbAS); the rest had normal haemoglobin (HbAA). No difference in prevalence of uncomplicated malaria and submicroscopic infection, parasite density, haemoglobin level, MOI and P. falciparum genetic diversity was observed according to haemoglobin type. CONCLUSION: The low prevalence of uncomplicated malaria in febrile Congolese children indicates the necessity to investigate carefully other causes of fever.

Otoacoustic emission testing in Ghanaian children with sickle-cell disease.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate hearing loss in children as a complication of sickle-cell disease. METHODS: In Kumasi, Ghana, 35 children with SCD aged 6 months to 10 years underwent transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions testing (TEOAE) to investigate the function of the inner ear. Healthy Ghanaian children recruited in school and kindergarten served as controls. RESULTS: One of 35 children with SCD and 13 of 115 control children failed the otoacoustic emissions testing. This difference between the control group and the children with SCD was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Early hearing impairment does not regularly occur in sickle-cell disease, and in children, it is not a likely cause of delayed or impaired language development.

Health policy for sickle cell disease in Africa: experience from Tanzania on interventions to reduce under-five mortality.

Tanzania has made considerable progress towards reducing childhood mortality, achieving a 57% decrease between 1980 and 2011. This epidemiological transition will cause a reduction in the contribution of infectious diseases to childhood mortality and increase in contribution from non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Haemoglobinopathies are amongst the most common childhood NCDs, with sickle cell disease (SCD) being the commonest haemoglobinopathy in Africa. In Tanzania, 10,313 children with SCD under 5 years of age (U5) are estimated to die every year, contributing an estimated 7% of overall deaths in U5 children. Key policies that governments in Africa are able to implement would reduce mortality in SCD, focusing on newborn screening and comprehensive SCD care programmes. Such programmes would ensure that interventions such as prevention of infections using penicillin plus prompt diagnosis and treatment of complications are provided to all individuals with SCD.

Clinical management of the acute complications of sickle cell anemia: 11 years of experience in a tertiary hospital.

INTRODUCTION: Sickle cell disease is an emerging anemia in Europe leading to high morbidity with severe acute complications requiring hospital admission and chronic consequences. The management of these patients is complex and needs interdisciplinary care. The objective is to analyze clinical characteristics and management of patients with sickle cell disease admitted for acute complications. METHODS: Retrospective descriptive study of admissions for acute complications of patients with sickle cell disease under 16 years of age in a tertiary hospital between 2010 and 2020. Clinical, laboratory and radiological data were reviewed. RESULTS: We included 71 admissions corresponding to 25 patients, 40% diagnosed by neonatal screening. Admissions increased during this period. The most frequent diagnoses were vaso-occlusive crisis (35.2%), febrile syndrome (33.8%) and acute chest syndrome (32.3%). Nine patients required critical care at PICU. Positive microbiological results were confirmed in 20 cases, bacterial in 60%. Antibiotic therapy was administered in 86% of cases and the vaccination schedule of asplenia was adequately fulfilled by 89%. Opioid analgesia was required in 28%. Chronic therapy with hydroxyurea prior to admission was used in 41%. CONCLUSIONS: Acute complications requiring hospital admission are frequent in patients with sickle cell disease, being vaso-occlusive crisis and febrile syndrome the most common. These patients need a high use of antibiotics and opioid analgesia. Prior diagnosis facilitates the recognition of life-threatening complications such as acute chest syndrome and splenic sequestration. Despite the prophylactic and therapeutic measures currently provided to these patients, many patients suffer acute complications that require hospital management.

Analgesic management of uncomplicated acute sickle-cell pain crisis in pediatrics: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To capture evidence of the efficacy and safety of pharmacological analgesia for uncomplicated acute sickle-cell pain in pediatric patients compared to placebo. SOURCES OF DATA: Searches for key evidence were performed from March 1 to 31, 2018, for randomized controlled trials of pharmacological analgesia compared to placebo for uncomplicated acute sickle-cell pain in a pediatric sample. The authors searched ten scientific databases including, among others, PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Clinicaltrials.gov for this systematic review and meta-analysis. SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS: Four trials (n=227) were selected by the inclusion criteria (intranasal fentanyl, intravenous magnesium, arginine, and inhaled nitric oxide). The quality of evidence ranged from low to moderate for each outcome. Meta-analysis of changes in the ladder of pain score (p=0.72), length-of-stay in hospital (p=0.65), and amount of narcotics used during the study (p=0.10) showed non-statistically significant differences and a lack of amelioration provided by pharmaceutical analgesics in treatment group. The adverse events reported that more participants in the intervention arm underwent pain, with statistically significant differences at the drug delivery site in studies using intranasal fentanyl and intravenous magnesium (p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS: Pharmacological analgesia appears to be uncertain in improving the intensity and providing relief of acute pain crisis in pediatric patients with sickle-cell anemia. With respect to clinical advantage, no decisive deduction about the clinical efficacy may be made regarding these medications in acute sickle-cell pain management in the pediatric age group.

Tracking and considerations on the therapeutic management of neuropathic pain in adult patients with sickle cell disease / Rastreamento e considerações sobre a conduta terapêutica na dor neuropática em pacientes adultos com doença falciforme

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Sickle cell disease is considered the most common hereditary disorder in Brazil. The chronic pain resulting from some complications of sickle cell disease is still poorly understood, inadequately described, and under-researched. This study aimed to characterize chronic pain in individuals with sickle cell disease, evaluate its treatment, and discuss the importance of studying it as a distinct pathology. METHODS: A cross-sectional study based on comparative analysis between two associations of sickle cell disease patients, one in Brazil and the other in France. The Pain Detect Questionnaire was used to assess neuropathic pain, and Odds Ratio was used to evaluate the strength of the association between opioid use and the recurrence of chronic painful crises. RESULTS: In Brazil, the Pain Detect questionnaire revealed that 55% of patients had a probable neuropathic component, 23% negative, and 22% uncertain. In France, the application resulted in 51% for probable presence, 29% for negative, and 20% for uncertain. All patients reported constant pain. As for the frequent use of opioids, the results were 62% in Brazil and 32% in France. The Odds Ratio calculation results were: OR 15.14 (95% CI = 4.777- 41.4, p < 0.0001) in Brazil; and OR 7.5 (95% CI = 2.121- 25.74, p = 0.0013) in France. CONCLUSION: While it is commonly believed that pain in sickle cell disease is primarily related to somatic and visceral tissue damage after vaso-occlusive events, this study indicated emerging evidence of neuropathic processes involved. Thus, there should be a significant concern about the management of chronic pain and particularly opioid dependence in Brazil.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Dentre as alterações hereditárias, a doença falciforme é considerada a mais comum no Brasil. A dor crônica decorrente de suas complicações ainda é mal compreendida, inadequadamente descrita e pouco pesquisada. O presente estudo teve como finalidade caracterizar a dor crônica em indivíduos com doença falciforme, avaliar o seu tratamento e discutir a importância de seu estudo como uma doença em si. METODOS: Estudo transversal, baseado na análise comparativa entre duas associações de indivíduos acometidos pela doença falciforme, com sede no Brasil e na França. Foi aplicado o questionário Pain Detect para avaliação da dor neuropática e a Odds Ratio para avaliar a intensidade de associação entre o uso de opioides e a recorrência de crises álgicas de cunho crônico. RESULTADOS: O questionário Pain Detect apontou que no Brasil 55% de pacientes da doença calciforme apresentam componente neuropático provável, 23% negativo e 22% incerto. Na França, os resultaram foram de 51% para componente provável, 29% negativo e 20% incerto. Dos acometidos pela doença, 100% relataram dores constantes, sendo que fizeram uso frequente de opioides 62% no Brasil e 32% na França. O cálculo do Odds Ratio apontou os seguintes resultados: OR 15,14 (IC 95% = 4,777- 41,4, p < 0,0001) no Brasil; e OR 7,5 (IC 95% = 2,121- 25,74, p = 0,0013) na França. CONCLUSÃO: Embora haja uma crença de que a dor na doença falciforme seja primariamente relacionada à lesão tecidual a nível somático e visceral após os eventos vasoclusivos, o estudo apontou evidências emergentes de processos neuropáticos envolvidos. Assim, deve haver uma preocupação quanto ao manejo da dor crônica e em especial à dependência química pelos opioides no Brasil.

Masculinidad hegemónica: factor negativo en la prevención de anemia falciforme en Matanzas

Introducción: En Cuba se le concede gran importancia a la atención de la madre y el niño, por lo cual se desarrollan programas de prevención de enfermedades como la anemia falciforme, condición hereditaria frecuente en el mundo. El asesoramiento genético de esta enfermedad pone de manifiesto rasgos de masculinidad hegemónica heredados de una cultura patriarcal, que conspiran contra el diagnóstico prenatal de la enfermedad. Objetivo: Describir los patrones de masculinidad hegemónica que inciden negativamente en la prevención de anemia falciforme en la provincia de Matanzas. Métodos: Se realizó una investigación descriptiva retrospectiva, a través de la revisión de las historias clínicas de anemia falciforme del Departamento de Genética Médica, de Matanzas, de 1981 a 2021. Se informatizó este registro genético en Excel y se procedió a examinar la información. Se analizó el número de esposos de gestantes portadoras negados a electroforesis de hemoglobina, así como el número de parejas negadas al diagnóstico prenatal y las causas en ambos casos. Se hizo un análisis porcentual presentado en tablas. Resultados: Fueron objeto de estudio 7140 esposos de gestantes portadoras de anemia falciforme; los negados a electroforesis de hemoglobina constituyeron 1088, por no aceptación de la paternidad ni de la morbimortalidad por esta enfermedad. De 428 parejas de riesgo, 252 se hicieron diagnóstico prenatal; 78,9 % de las 176 no estudiadas correspondió a negación masculina, donde imperaron: temor al aborto, inconformidad con la morbimortalidad, y rasgos de paternidad irresponsable. Conclusiones: Los patrones de masculinidad hegemónica se manifiestan de forma negativa en el asesoramiento genético de la anemia falciforme. Desmontarlos progresivamente ayuda a mejorar la prevención de esta enfermedad a través del diagnóstico prenatal.

Introduction: In Cuba, great importance is given to the care of mother and child, which is why programs are develop to prevent diseases such as sickle cell anemia, hereditary condition very frequent in the world. Genetic counseling of this disease reveals hegemonic masculinity traits inherited from a patriarchal culture, which conspire against prenatal diagnosis of the disease. Objective: To describe the patterns of hegemonic masculinity which negatively affect the prevention of sickle cell anemia in the province of Matanzas. Methods: A retrospective descriptive research was carried out, through the review of sickle cell anemia clinical records of the Medical Genetics Department of Matanzas, from 1981 to 2021.This genetic record was computerized in Excel and the information was examined. The number of husbands of carrying pregnant women who refused hemoglobin electrophoresis was analyzed, as well as the number of couples denied to prenatal diagnosis and the causes in both cases. A percentaje analysis was performed, presented in tables. Results: 7140 husbands of pregnant women carrying sickle cell anemia were studied; those who refused hemoglobin electrophoresis constituted 1088 due to non-acceptance of paternity and morbimortality for this disease. Of 428 risk couples, 252 were prenatally diagnosed; 78.9% of those 176 not studied corresponded to male denial, where fear of abortion, dissatisfaction with morbimortality, and irresponsible paternity traits prevailed. Conclusions: Patterns of hegemonic masculinity are negatively manifested in genetic counseling for sickle cell disease. Dismantling them progressively helps to improve the prevention of this disease through prenatal diagnosis.

Impacto del Programa de prevención de anemia por hematíes falciformes

Introducción: la anemia de células falciformes es una enfermedad genética autosómica recesiva considerada la enfermedad hereditaria más frecuente en Cuba. El Programa Cubano de prevención de anemia por hematíes falciformes, se basa en el pesquisaje mediante estudio de electroforesis de hemoglobina a todas las gestantes, el cual es aplicado desde el año 1983. Objetivo: describir el impacto del Programa Cubano de prevención de anemia por hematíes falciformes en Granma, en el período de 1987-2021. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, ambipestivo, de serie de casos en las gestantes pertenecientes a la provincia Granma en el período 1987-2021. Se revisaron las estadísticas de los departamentos municipales y provincial. Se analizaron las variables como frecuencia de portadoras, variantes de hemoglobina, cobertura de esposos estudiados, diagnóstico prenatal molecular y casos positivos. Para el análisis estadístico se emplearon medidas de resumen como frecuencias absolutas y relativas. Resultados: se comprobó que la frecuencia de portadoras de la provincia es de 3,9 %. La variante más frecuente es la Hb AS. Se estudiaron 62 % de los esposos. Se realizó el 70,3 % de los diagnósticos moleculares, de los cuales 21,3 % fue positivo optando por la terminación voluntaria de la gestación en el 69 % de ellos. Conclusiones: se logró impacto del Programa Cubano de prevención de anemia por hematíes falciformes en el período de 1987-2021 en cuanto a la detección de portadoras de la enfermedad, frecuencia de diagnósticos prenatales moleculares, enfermos e interrupciones por esta causa.

Introduction: Sickle cell anemia is an autosomal recessive genetic disease. It is considered the most common hereditary disease in Cuba. The Cuban sickle cell anemia prevention Program is based on the screening of all pregnant women by hemoglobin electrophoresis. This program has been applied since 1983. Objective: To describe the impact of the Cuban sickle cell anemia prevention Program during the period 1987-2021. Methods: An observational study was conducted on a series of cases of pregnant women belonging to the province of Granma in the period from 1987 to 2021. Municipal and provincial statistics were reviewed. Variables such as carrier frequency, hemoglobin variants, coverage of studied spouses, molecular prenatal diagnosis, and positive cases were analyzed. Summary measures such as absolute and relative frequencies were used for statistical analysis. Results: The carrier frequency in the province was found to be 3.9%. The most common variant is Hb AS. Sixty-two percent of spouses were screened. Molecular diagnosis was performed in 70.3%, of which 21.3% were positive and 69% opted for voluntary abortion. Conclusions: The Cuban Sickle Cell Disease Prevention Program has had a great impact on halting the number of carriers of the disease, the frequency of prenatal molecular diagnoses, and the number of patients with sickle cell anemia in the period 1987-2021.

Introdução: A anemia falciforme é uma doença genética autossómica recessiva, sendo considerada a doença hereditária mais comum em Cuba. O programa cubano de prevenção da anemia falciforme baseia-se no rastreio de todas as mulheres grávidas através da eletroforese da hemoglobina, que tem sido aplicado desde 1983. Objetivo: Descrever o impacto do Programa Cubano de Prevenção da Anemia Falciforme durante o período 1987-2021. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo observacional de uma série de casos de mulheres grávidas pertencentes à província de Granma no período de 1987 a 2021. Foram revistas estatísticas municipais e provinciais. Foram analisadas variáveis como frequência de portadores, variantes de hemoglobina, cobertura de cônjuges estudados, diagnóstico pré-natal molecular e casos positivos. Para a análise estatística foram utilizadas medidas de síntese como frequências absolutas e relativas. Resultados: A frequência de portadores na província foi de 3,9%. A variante mais comum é a Hb AS. Sessenta e dois por cento dos cônjuges foram rastreados. O diagnóstico molecular foi efectuado em 70,3%, dos quais 21,3% foram positivos e 69% optaram pelo aborto voluntário. Conclusões: O Programa Cubano de Prevenção da Doença Falciforme teve um grande impacto na redução do número de portadores da doença, na frequência dos diagnósticos moleculares pré-natais e no número de pacientes com anemia falciforme no período 1987-2021.

Àgô Sankofa: um olhar sobre a trajetória da doença falciforme no Brasil nos últimos 20 anos / Àgô Sankofa: an overview of the progression of sickle cell disease in Brazil in the past two decades

Resumo A doença falciforme (DF) é um caso emblemático de negligência histórica em saúde no Brasil e reflete como o racismo institucional produz iniquidades em saúde. Este artigo fez um percurso histórico até os dias atuais e mostra atraso na implementação de políticas de saúde voltadas para as pessoas com DF, tantas vezes encoberto em (in)ações e omissões do poder público. O descompromisso para a efetivação das recomendações do Ministério da Saúde, a exemplo da triagem neonatal, e a dificuldade de incorporar as tecnologias para a assistência à saúde resultam desse modus nada operandi. Os avanços e retrocessos nas ações programáticas, bem como a pressão constante sobre os diversos entes governamentais, caracterizaram a saga dos últimos 20 anos. O texto disserta sobre as políticas voltadas para as pessoas com DF, apropriando-se da simbologia Sankofa, já que só é possível construir o presente pelo aprendizado dos erros do passado. Assim, reconhecemos essa trajetória e esse momento histórico em que há possibilidade concreta de avançar e concretizar o tão almejado cuidado integral para pessoas com DF. Concluiu-se que há um convite para um novo olhar, em que esperançar seja o disparador das movimentações necessárias para a garantia do direito para as pessoas com DF.

Abstract Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an emblematic case of historical health neglect in Brazil and reflects how institutional racism produces health inequalities. This article engaged in a historical journey of this disease, showing the delayed implementation of health policies for people with sickle cell disease, often concealed in Public Power's (in)actions and omissions. The lack of commitment to implement the recommendations of the Brazilian Ministry of Health, such as neonatal screening, and the difficulty in incorporating technologies for health care result from this modus operandi. The advances and setbacks in programmatic actions and the constant pressure on several governmental entities have characterized the reported saga in the last twenty years. The present text discusses the policies for people with SCD, appropriating the Sankofa symbol, meaning that building the present is only possible by remembering past mistakes. Thus, we recognize this trajectory and this historical moment in which there is a concrete possibility of moving forward and achieving the longed-for comprehensive care for people with SCD. There is an invitation to glance at a new perspective, one in which hope is the trigger for the movements needed to guarantee the rights of people with SCD.

Dental caries in the permanent dentition and health-related quality of life among children and adolescents with sickle cell disease / Cáries dentárias na dentição permanente e qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde entre crianças e adolescentes com doença falciforme

Abstract The aim was to associate living, health and oral health conditions with the quality of life (QL) of children and adolescents (CA) with sickle cell disease (SCD). Of the 120 eligible users of a public hematological service, 106 CA with SCD from 6 to 18 years of age, and their caregivers, answered semi-structured questions about socio-demographic, health and oral health conditions. For QL, we used the validated instrument PedsQLSCD™. The oral clinical examination occurred according to the guidelines of WHO and SB Brazil 2010. The majority of CA were non-white people (88%), mean age of 10.4 (±2.9) years, family income of up to two monthly minimum wages, for 03 to 05 members, with diagnosis of sickle cell anemia by neonatal screening, hospitalizations were due allergic crises, polypharmacy and dental caries (51%) were present. "About the Impact of My Pain" was the best-fit model for the QLSCD (adjusted R²=56%; AIC=28.67; p=0.04). Dental caries in permanent dentition worsened the QLSCD (OR=0.53; IC95%=0.35-0.78; p<0.05) and was associated with the type of school, car ownership, number of family members, of complications and of the medications. To overcome this scenario, programmatic actions are required, and implementation of public policies specifically directed towards these groups.

Resumo Objetivou-se associar condições de vida, de saúde e de saúde bucal à qualidade de vida (QLV) de crianças e adolescentes (CA) com Doença Falciforme (DF). Dos 120 usuários elegíveis de um serviço público hematológico, 106 CA entre 6 e 18 anos de idade, e seus cuidadores, responderam questões semiestruturadas sobre condições sociodemográficas, de saúde e saúde bucal. Para a QLV, o instrumento validado PedsQL DF® foi aplicado. Na sequência, realizou-se o exame clínico bucal nas CA segundo diretrizes da OMS e do SB Brasil 2010. A maioria das CA era negra (88%), idade média de 10,4 (±2.9) anos, renda familiar de até dois salários mínimos, para 03 a 05 membros, diagnosticadas na triagem neonatal com anemia falciforme, internadas por crises álgicas, em uso de polifarmácia e com cárie dental (51%). O domínio "Sobre o Impacto da Minha Dor" foi preditivo da QLVDF (R² ajustado =56%; AIC=28.67; p=0,04). Nele, a cárie dental na dentição permanente piorou a QLVDF das CA (OR=0.53; IC95%=0.35-0.78; p<0,05), associando-se ao tipo de escola, posse de carro e do número de membros na família, de complicações da DF e de medicamentos. Os achados ratificam a dor como marca da DF e mostram a importância da saúde bucal na QLDF das CA. A implementação de políticas públicas específicas pode superar esse cenário.

Food insecurity and social support in families of children with sickle-cell disease.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the associations between food insecurity (IA) and social support in families of children with sickle-cell disease (DF). METHODS: This cross-sectional study in families of 190 children from five to nine years old in follow-up at a hematology referral hospital in Rio de Janeiro State. IA was measured using the Brazilian food insecurity scale and social support was measured using the Brazilian version of the MOS social support survey instrument. The relation between IA and social support was analyzed by way of a multinomial logistic model. RESULTS: There was IA in 62.2% of the families, in moderate and severe form in, respectively, 11.1% and 7.9% of cases. In families of children with DF, levels of mild and severe food insecurity (IALe and IAGr) were found to relate inversely to levels of social support in the following dimensions: informational support (IALe OR=0.98; 95% CI 0.96-0.99 and IAGr OR=0.95; 95% CI 0.92-0.98); social interaction (IALe OR=0.98; 95% CI 0.96-0.99 and IAGr OR=0.96; 95% CI 0.93-0.99) and tangible social support (IALe OR=0.97; 95% CI 0.96-0.99 and IAGr OR=0.97; 95% CI 0.94-0.99). CONCLUSION: Considering the positive effects of social support on IA, public policies should be encouraged to assure food and nutritional security and social assistance for care for people with DF. Also, social support groups for people with DF should be strengthened.

Cognitive profile of children with sickle cell anemia compared to healthy controls.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the cognitive abilities of children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia diagnosed through neonatal screening and to compare them with healthy controls, adjusting the results to their socioeconomic status. METHODS: Cognitive assessment was performed with the Wechsler WISC-III scale in 64 children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia and in 64 controls matched by gender and age, without the disease and without neurological impairment; socioeconomic status was measured by the Criterion Brasil. RESULTS: All cognitive scores were lower in the group of patients. The mean overall IQ, Verbal IQ, and Performance IQ were, respectively, 90.95 for the group of patients and 113.97 for the controls (p<0.001); 91.41 for the group of patients and 112.31 for the controls (p<0.001); 92.34 for the group of patients and 113.38 for the controls (p<0.001). Scores for processing speed, distraction resistance, and perceptual organization were also significantly lower in patients. A direct and significant correlation was detected between socioeconomic status and cognitive scores. In the multivariate analysis, for the same socioeconomic status, a child with sickle cell anemia had an average IQ of 21.2 points lower than the mean IQ observed for the controls (p<0.001), indicating that the disease, adjusted for the socioeconomic effect, is a strong predictor of the overall IQ. CONCLUSION: The cognitive impairment of children with sickle cell anemia is severe and manifests even when the disease effect is adjusted to the socioeconomic status. In the authors' view, such impairment requires an early preventive approach in order to avoid this cognitive damage.

Atenção à pessoa com anemia falciforme no contexto da Estratégia Saúde da Família: a ótica dos profissionais / Caring the patient with falciform anemia in the context of the Family Health Strategy: the views of professionals

Resumo Introdução: Na atenção à pessoa com anemia falciforme, é imprescindível um cuidado compartilhado e coordenado pela Atenção Primária à Saúde. Os profissionais de saúde da família devem se comprometer com a assistência, sendo necessária uma articulada rede de atenção à saúde. Este estudo teve por objetivo compreender as visões de profissionais de saúde da família acerca da atenção à saúde da pessoa com anemia falciforme. Método: Pesquisa qualitativa, realizada em Diamantina, estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, com enfermeiros e médicos da Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF). Conduziram-se entrevistas semiestruturadas com 15 profissionais — sendo, depois, submetidas à análise temática de conteúdo. Resultados: Emergiram duas categorias temáticas: "assistência à pessoa com anemia falciforme: fragilidades no contexto da Estratégia Saúde da Família" e "referência e contrarreferência na atenção: uma rede fragmentada". Revelaram-se desafios a serem superados: o acompanhamento sistemático mostrou-se incipiente, atribuiu-se a responsabilidade pelo cuidado principalmente ao serviço do hemocentro e o sistema de referência e contrarreferência apresentou fragmentação. Conclusões: No cenário da ESF, a assistência requer avanços para que seja de melhor qualidade, com efetiva atuação da equipe e rede de atenção bem estruturada.

Abstract Background: While caring the patients with sickle cell anemia, shared care coordinated by Primary Health Care is essential. Family health professionals must commit to care, and an articulated healthcare network is necessary. This study aimed to understand the visions of family health professionals about health care for patients with sickle cell anemia. Method: Qualitative research was carried out in Diamantina, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, with nurses and physicians of the Family Health Strategy (ESF). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 professionals and the results were submitted to content thematic analysis. Results: Two thematic categories emerged: "assistance to the person with sickle cell anemia: fragilities in the context of the Family Health Strategy" and "reference and counterreference in care: a fragmented network." Challenges to overcome were revealed: systematic follow-up was incipient; responsibility for care was attributed mainly to the blood center service; and the reference and counter-reference system presented fragmentation. Conclusions: In the ESF scenario, care requires advances to be of better quality, with effective team performance and a well-structured care network.

Doença falciforme: cuidado com pessoas com úlcera da perna nos serviços de atenção à saúde / Sickle cell disease: caring for people with leg ulcers in heal-thcare services / Enfermedad falciforme: cuidado de personas con úlcera de pierna en los servicios de atención a la salud

Objetivo: identificar o local e os cuidados diretos recebidos por pessoas com úlceras da perna por doença falciforme nos serviços de atenção à saúde. Método: estudo transversal, realizado em 11 centros, no período de agosto de 2019 a abril de 2020. Fizeram parte do estudo 72 pessoas com úlcera da perna ativa. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultado: apresentavam anemia falciforme 91,7% dos participantes, com mediana de três anos de existência da úlcera; 77,8% eram redicivantes; 40,3% compravam os insumos; 66,7% trocavam o próprio curativo no domicílio; 52,8% realizavam uma ou mais trocas diárias; 45,8% dos tratamentos foram prescritos pelo médico; 37,5% eram pomada (colagenase ou antibiótico); 89% não utilizavam compressão para o manejo do edema. Conclusão: a maioria dos participantes não estava inserida na Rede de Atenção à Saúde para o tratamento da úlcera, e não recebia assistência sistematizada e nem insumos apropriados.

Objective: to identify the location and direct care received by people with leg ulcers due to sickle cell disease in health care services. Method: a cross-sectional study carried out in 11 centers from August 2019 to April 2020. The study included 72 people with active leg ulcers. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: a total of 91.7% of the participants had sickle cell anemia, with a median of three years of ulcer existence; 77.8% were recurrent; 40.3% bought the supplies; 66.7% changed their own dressings at home; 52.8% did one or more changes a day; 45.8% of the treatments were prescribed by physician; 37.5% were ointments (collagenase or antibiotics); and 89% did not use compression to manage edema. Conclusion: most of the participants were not included in the Health Care Network for ulcer treatment and did not receive systematized care or appropriate supplies.

Objetivo: identificar el lugar y los cuidados directos recibidos por personas con úlceras de pierna por enfermedad falciforme en los servicios de atención a la salud. Método: estudio transversal, realizado en 11 centros, en el período de agosto de 2019 a abril de 2020. Participaron 72 personas con úlcera de pierna activa. El estudio fue aprobado por el Comité de Ética en Investigación. Resultado: presentaban anemia falciforme 91,7% de los participantes, con una mediana de tres años de existencia de la úlcera; 77,8% eran recidivantes; 40,3% compraban los insumos; 66,7% cambiaban su propio vendaje en el domicilio; 52,8% realizaban uno o más cambios diarios; 45,8% de los tratamientos fueron prescritos por el médico; 37,5% eran pomada (colagenasa o antibiótico); y 89% no utilizaban compresión para el manejo del edema. Conclusión: la mayoría de los participantes no estaba integrada en la Red de Atención a la Salud para el tratamiento de la úlcera, y no recibía asistencia sistematizada ni insumos apropiados.

Enfermedad de Células Falciformes y Embarazo

La enfermedad por células falciformes (ECF) es una patología en aumento en el mundo y en nuestro país. Debido a los avances en el tratamiento y la mejor expectativa de vida hay más mujeres con ECF que tienen embarazos.En estos casos, los riesgos para la madre y el hijo son mayores que para la población general. Por este motivo que se requiere de un equipo multidisciplinario que trabaje en forma protocolizada, para lograr los mejores resultados.  En este documento presentamos los principios generales para el manejo de la mujer con ECF durante el embarazo y puntualizamos la necesidad de más estudios para fortalecer la evidencia científica en esta población. (provisto por Infomedic International)

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a growing pathology in the world and in our country. Due to advances in treatment and improved life expectancy, more women with SCD are having pregnancies. In these cases, the risks for mother and child are higher than for the general population. For this reason, a multidisciplinary team working in a protocolized way is required to achieve the best results. In this document we present the general principles for the management of women with SCD during pregnancy and point out the need for more studies to strengthen the scientific evidence in this population. (provided by Infomedic International)

Doença falciforme e o efeito modulador da vitamina D em crianças: uma revisão integrativa / Sickle cell disease and the modulating effect of vitamin D in children: an integrative review

INTRODUÇÃO: A deficiência de Vitamina D (VD) é frequente na doença falciforme (DF) em decorrência do status inflamatório crônico, danos renais, endoteliais, hiperhemólise e melanodermia. Atualmente, a suplementação desse nutriente em falcêmicos tem se mostrado importante devido sua ação sistêmica e imunológica. OBJETIVOS: Analisar o impacto da VD em crianças com DF. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, onde foram analisados estudos, publicados originalmente em inglês e português, dos últimos dez anos, em humanos, tendo como referência as bases de dados MEDLINE, SciELO e LILACS. A busca foi efetuada mediante a consulta ao MeSH. Os descritores utilizados foram: "children"; "vitamin D"; "sickle cell anemia"; "supplementation". Foram identificados 32 artigos a partir da frase de pesquisa. Ao aplicar os critérios de inclusão, nove artigos foram eleitos para o estudo. RESULTADOS: A partir da análise dos artigos incluídos, 6 avaliaram a prevalência da deficiência de VD em crianças com anemia falciforme e os outros três artigos relataram sobre a suplementação de VD em crianças também com anemia falciforme. Todos os estudos mostraram que as crianças tratadas com reposição de VD tiveram uma diminuição de idas ao pronto-socorro e maior estabilidade hemodinâmica durante os tratamentos. CONCLUSÃO: Outros ensaios clínicos randomizados devem ser realizados para identificar o papel da DV na qualidade de vida e na redução da morbidade falciforme. A contribuição deste artigo é reconhecer que há evidências sobre a vitamina D fora dos ensaios clínicos randomizados.

INTRODUCTION: Vitamin D (VD) deficiency is frequent in sickle cell disease (SCD) due to chronic inflammatory status, kidney and endothelial damage, hyperhemolysis and melanoderma. Currently, the supplementation of this nutrient in sickle cell patients is important due to its systemic and immunological action. Objectives: To analyze the impact of VD in children with SCD. METHODS: This is an integrative literature review, which analyzed studies, originally published in English and Portuguese, in the last ten years, in humans, using the MedLine, SciELO and LILACS databases as References. The search was performed by consulting the MeSH. The descriptors used were: "children"; "vitamin D"; "sickle cell anemia"; "supplementation". 32 articles were identified from the search phrase. When applying the inclusion criteria, nine articles were chosen for the study. RESULTS: Among the included articles, six evaluated the prevalence of VD deficiency in children with sickle cell anemia, and the other three reported on VD supplementation in children with sickle cell anemia. All studies showed that children treated with VD replacement had a decrease in emergency room visits and greater hemodynamic stability during treatments. CONCLUSION: Further randomized controlled trials should be carried out to identify the role of VD in quality of life and in the reduction of sickle cell morbidity. The contribution of this paper is to recognize that there is evidence about vitamin D outside of randomized controlled trials.

Craniofacial abnormalities and malocclusion findings in sickle cell disease related to ethnic-racial populations: a critical review of the literature

Introduction: sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited, hematological, chronic disease that mostly affects racial/ethnic groups. The dental literature discusses SCD's oral symptoms, such as malocclusion and craniofacial abnormalities, without considering the significance of a racial/ethnic perspective. Objective: this article critically reviewed the findings of the studies based on a racial/ethnic standpoint and SCD landmarks. Sources of data: primary and secondary searches selected 146 studies from four scientific literature databases. Two reviewers independently extracted data from eleven included studies. Synthesis of data: most studies used lateral cephalometry and reported craniofacial abnormalities and malocclusions, such as maxillary protrusion, class II skeletal patterns, vertical facial growth patterns, convex facial profile, mandibular retrusion, and the posterior rotation of the jaw. However, there is no mention of racial or ethnic cephalometric patterns to support these findings in the studied populations. In addition, a misunderstanding occurs when overlooking the different periods of growth or ages within and between the studied groups. Furthermore, there is no mention of previous orthodontic treatment. By contrast, there is a lack of information about the medically compromised health status of people with SCD, such as the life period of SCD's diagnosis; the number and timing of blood transfusions; the medical history of hospitalizations, vaso-occlusive crises, or hydroxyurea use. Conclusion: racial and ethnic concerns for the diagnosis of malocclusions and craniofacial anomalies, as well as SCD landmarks, are underappreciated in the examined dental literature. Discarding them also demonstrates institutional racism.

Introdução: a doença falciforme é uma doença hematológica, hereditária, crônica, que afeta principalmente, a população negra, em escala global. Na literatura odontológica, os achados craniofaciais e oclusais relacionados à doença falciforme são discordantes, mas, em comum, desconsideram a perspectiva racial. Objetivo: este artigo revisou criticamente a literatura odontológica e discutiu os achados encontrados na perspectiva racial/étnica. Fonte dos dados: estudos primários e secundários selecionaram 146 ocorrências de quatro bases de dados da literatura científica. Dois revisores extraíram independentemente os dados dos onze estudos incluídos. Síntese dos dados: com base na cefalometria lateral, a maioria dos estudos concluiu que as anormalidades craniofaciais e maloclusões, como protrusão maxilar, padrão esquelético de classe II, padrão de crescimento facial vertical, perfil facial convexo, retrusão mandibular e rotação posterior da mandíbula foram os mais comuns achados para pessoas com doença falciforme. No entanto, ao considerar a perspectiva étnico-racial, não há menção na maioria dos estudos de ajustes dos padrões cefalométricos específicos para as populações racializadas, nem tampouco são consideradas características do grupo populacional e da doença falciforme em si, como sua severidade, o momento de vida em que o diagnóstico ocorreu, número e período de hemotransfusões, internações, crises vaso-oclusivas ou uso de hidroxiureia. Além disso, a ampla faixa etária em diferentes períodos de crescimento ósseo e a ausência de informação sobre tratamento ortodôntico prévio foram observadas. Conclusão: há omissão sobre considerações étnico-raciais para relatar anormalidades craniofaciais e maloclusões sobre doença falciforme na literatura odontológica revisada. Isto pode ser uma expressão do racismo.

Conhecimento de enfemeiras sobre a criança com doença falciforme / Conocimiento de enfemeiras sobre el niño con enfermedad falciforme / Knowledge of nurses about children with sickle cell disease

Objetivo: conhecer a percepção das enfermeiras sobre a criança com doença falciforme. Método: pesquisa qualitativa Convergente-Assistencial, ocorrida em hospital público pediátrico, da qual participaram 12 enfermeiras da emergência no período de julho de 2020 a abril de 2021, após submissão ao Comitê de Ética. As técnicas de coleta de dados foram: sondagem do conhecimento por entrevista semiestruturada, grupos de convergência e observação participante. Os dados foram analisados conforme referencial da Pesquisa Convergente-Assistencial e suas fases, sendo elas concepção, instrumentalização, teorização, transferência e análise. Resultados: as enfermeiras reconheceram a doença pela principal manifestação clínica, a crise álgica, a qual foi citada como característica marcante da criança com doença falciforme. Considerações finais: as enfermeiras atuantes na emergência pediátrica conhecem alguns aspectos da doença falciforme e revelaram conhecimento incipiente sobre a fisiopatologia da doença.

Objetivo: conocer la percepción de las enfermeras sobre el niño con enfermedad falciforme. Método: Investigación cualitativa Convergente-Asistencial, ocurrida en hospital público pediátrico, de la cual participaron 12 enfermeras de la emergencia en el período de julio de 2020 a abril de 2021, tras sumisión al Comité de Ética. Las técnicas de recolección de datos fueron: sondeo del conocimiento por entrevista semiestructurada, grupos de convergencia y observación participante. Los datos fueron analizados conforme referencial de la Investigación Convergente-Asistencial y sus fases, siendo ellas concepción, instrumentalización, teorización, transferencia y análisis. Resultados: las enfermeras reconocieron la enfermedad por la principal manifestación clínica, la crisis álgica, la cual fue citada como característica distintiva del niño con enfermedad falciforme. Consideraciones finales: las enfermeras que actúan en la emergencia pediátrica conocen algunos aspectos de la enfermedad falciforme y revelaron conocimiento incipiente sobre la fisiopatología de la enfermedad.

Objective: to know the perception of nurses about the child with sickle cell disease. Method: qualitative Convergent-Care research, occurred in a public pediatric hospital, in which 12 emergency nurses participated from July 2020 to April 2021, after submission to the Ethics Committee. The data collection techniques were: survey of knowledge by semi-structured interview, convergence groups and participant observation. The data were analyzed according to the referential of the Convergent-Care Research and its phases, being them conception, instrumentalization, theorization, transfer and analysis. Results: the nurses recognized the disease by the main clinical manifestation, the pain crisis, which was cited as a striking characteristic of the child with sickle cell disease. Final considerations: the nurses working in the pediatric emergency know some aspects of sickle cell disease and revealed incipient knowledge about the pathophysiology of the disease.

Repercussions of sickle cell disease and sickle cell ulcers for men inserted in the world of work / Repercusiones de la anemia de células falciformes y de las úlceras falciformes para los hombres insertados en el mundo del trabajo / Repercussões da anemia falciforme e das úlceras falcêmicas para homens inseridos no mundo do trabalho

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the repercussions of sickle cell disease and sickle cell ulcer for men in the world of work and discuss the challenges faced to remain in the work environment. Method: A qualitative study, developed at the dressing clinic and at a stomatherapy clinic. Twenty men with sickle cell disease and sickle cell ulcer participated, applying a semi-structured interview script. The software Interface de R pour les Analyses Multidimensionnelles de Textes et de Questionnaires was used for treatment and lexical data analysis. Results: The Descending Hierarchical Classification enabled the creation of classes: Man with sickle cell disease and sickle cell ulcer: experiences and repercussions; and Coping measures adopted by men with sickle cell disease and sickle cell ulcer to stay at work. Conclusion: Disease and injury repercussions involve biopsychosocial dimensions, highlighting the need for professional training to assist with competence and humanity. Strategies adopted to maintain work are breaks in the working day, use of analgesics to relieve pain, allocating time during work to apply dressings.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar las repercusiones de la drepanocitosis y la drepanocitosis para hombres que actúan en el mundo del trabajo y discutir los desafíos enfrentados para permanecer en el ambiente de trabajo. Método: Estudio cualitativo, desarrollado en la clínica de vendajes y en una clínica de estomaterapia. Participaron 20 hombres con drepanocitosis y drepanocitosis, aplicando un guión de entrevista semiestructurada. Para el tratamiento y análisis léxico de los datos se utilizó el software Interface de R pour les Analyses Multidimensionnelles de Textes et de Questionnaires. Resultados: La Clasificación Jerárquica Descendente permitió la creación de clases: Hombre con anemia falciforme y úlcera falciforme: experiencias y repercusiones; y Medidas de afrontamiento adoptadas por el hombre con enfermedad de células falciformes y úlcera falciforme para permanecer en el trabajo. Conclusión: las repercusiones de la enfermedad y lesión involucran las dimensiones biopsicosociales, destacando la necesidad de formación profesional para asistir con competencia y humanidad. Las estrategias adoptadas para mantener el trabajo son pausas en la jornada laboral, uso de analgésicos para aliviar el dolor, asignación de tiempo durante el trabajo para aplicar curas.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar as repercussões da doença falciforme e da úlcera falcêmica para homens que atuam no mundo do trabalho e discutir os desafios enfrentados para se manterem no ambiente laboral. Método: Estudo qualitativo, desenvolvido no ambulatório de curativo e em uma clínica de estomaterapia. Participaram 20 homens com doença falciforme e úlcera falcêmica, aplicando-se roteiro de entrevista semiestruturado. Utilizou-se o software Interface de R pour les Analyses Multidimensionnelles de Textes et de Questionnaires, para tratamento e análise lexical dos dados. Resultados: A Classificação Hierárquica Descendente possibilitou a criação das classes: Homem com doença falciforme e úlcera falcêmica: vivências e repercussões; e Medidas de enfrentamento adotadas pelo homem com doença falciforme e úlcera falcêmica para manutenção no trabalho. Conclusão: As repercussões da doença e lesão envolvem as dimensões biopsicossociais, evidenciando a necessidade de capacitação dos profissionais para assistir com competência e humanidade. As estratégias adotadas para manutenção no trabalho são pausas na jornada laboral, uso de analgésicos para aplacar a dor, destinação de tempo durante o trabalho para realização dos curativos.