Clinical Pediatrics: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Knowledge and Experience of Adolescents with Sickle Cell Disease in the Hospitalier Universitaire Mere-Enfant Foundation Jeanne Ebori in Libreville

Lembet Mikolo Aude*, Mabery Grodet Adriana, Midili Tecle Larissa, Mintsa-Mi-Nkama Edmee, Mboungani Morgane, Nzila Matoumba, Kiba L, Pemba Mihindou Mawili, Medza M Ella R, Mve Abagha R, Eyi C, Aloli N, Nguemou Mba N, Kuissi Kamgaing E and Ategbo S

Introduction: Sickle cell disease remains a major public health problem in Sub-Saharan countries. It disrupts the social life of children and adults with the disease. The aim was to assess adolescents level of knowledge and report on their experiences of sickle cell disease.

Methods: Semi-qualitative, descriptive study over a 2-month period. We included adolescents with sickle cell disease who had been informed of their status with informed parental consent. The statistical analysis was carried by utilizing Epi Info 7.2.2.

Results: We collected data from 40 adolescents with sickle cell disease. The sex ratio was 0.7 with 56.8% girls. The mean age was 13.7 ± 2.5 years. The mean age of discovery was 3 ± 3.14 years, with a median age of diagnosis of 7 years. They were attending school 91.9% and 37.8% were behind in their schooling. Knowledge of sickle cell disease was effective in 78.4% of cases and 51.2% had very good knowledge of preventive measures. The disease was accepted in 32.4% of cases and 29.7% were afraid. Hygiene measures and repeated hospitalisations were resented in 24.3% of cases. In 40.5% of cases, they felt different from the other children and 13.5% had a conflictual relationship with their siblings. For 13.5%, the 2 most significant events were the death of a sickle cell brother and the occurrence of serious complications. The occurrence of new attacks was feared by 49.5% of them and 29.7% were afraid of dying.

Conclusion: Sickle cell disease has an impact on the lives of patients and their families. Control measures involving awareness-raising and psychological support are needed to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this disease.

Published Date: 2024-05-27; Received Date: 2024-04-25