A new study published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report reveals significant racial disparities in sickle cell disease (SCD) prevalence among newborns across 11 U.S. states. The research, conducted from 2016 to 2020, found that SCD affects one in every 350 non-Hispanic Black newborns, compared to one in 2,070 newborns overall.
The study analyzed data from state newborn screening programs and birth certificates, identifying 3,305 newborns with confirmed SCD. Of these, 90% were Black and 4% were Hispanic or Latino. The findings underscore the disproportionate impact of SCD on racial and ethnic minority communities.
Researchers also examined the social vulnerability of areas where mothers of SCD-affected newborns resided. Approximately two-thirds of these mothers lived in counties with high or very high social vulnerability, as measured by factors such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to transportation.
“These findings can guide public health, health care systems, and community program planning and implementation that address social determinants of health for infants with SCD,” the authors noted.
The study highlights potential strategies to improve outcomes for children with SCD, including enhancing access to transportation and addressing housing issues in vulnerable communities. Such interventions could help mitigate the complex health needs associated with SCD, which often leads to reduced life expectancy and lifelong disabilities.
This research provides valuable data for policymakers and healthcare providers to develop targeted interventions and allocate resources more effectively. By addressing the social and economic factors contributing to health disparities, there is potential to improve care and outcomes for children with SCD, particularly in Black and minority communities most affected by this inherited blood disorder.
