Sickle cell disease on children: a descriptive study

ABSTRACT

Aim: We intend to describe the socioeconomic and demographical characteristics of children between the ages of 0 and 11 years old, diagnosed with sickle cell disease, and describe the attention given to these children in the city of São Francisco do Conde, Brazil. Method: This is a descriptive and quantitative study, based on a population of 15 children with sickle cell disease. The demographic, socioeconomic and clinical characteristics were collected through the use of a form containing structured questions, applied to the mothers/tutors of the children. The statistical analysis of the data collected involved the use of unvaried distribution of frequencies presented on the charts. Results: From the total of the population, 86.7% are afro-decedents; 33.3% lived with a net income of two minimum wages or less and; 73.3% has used the emergency system and was hospitalized. Discussion: The socioeconomic data of the identified population allow us to make inferences about the quality of the assistance given to the child living with the disease. Conclusion: The implication of the sickness could be minimized by healthcare actions that are consistent with the needs of these children.