TITLE:
Integration of Sickle Cell Screening with Routine Immunization in Mbujimayi, a Remote City in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
AUTHORS:
Schadrac Kalombo-Munganga, Désiré Malemba-Citala, Alexandre Kalala-Mwanza, Denis Mbuyi-Kalambayi, Steve Kasongo-Thsiala, John Mpoyi-Kalenda, Jean Pierre Alworong’a Opara, Benoît Mbiya-Mukinayi
KEYWORDS:
Early Detection, Prevalence, Sickle Cell Disease, Mbujimayi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Epidemiology,
Vol.16 No.2,
May
13,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: Sickle cell disease is the most common genetic disorder in the world. It is a real public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa. Early screening makes it possible to diagnose the disease in the first few days of life and to start early treatment to prevent serious complications. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sickle cell disease in Mbujimayi among children under the age of 5 during routine vaccination. Method: Prospective study conducted over a period of 6 months, from 05 December 2023 to 05 June 2024, in Mbujimayi. The main intervention of the study was systematic screening for sickle cell disease in children under 5 years of age during routine vaccination. The HemoTypeSC immuno-chromatographic test was used, and SS homozygous cases were confirmed by hemoglobin electrophoresis. Results: The prevalence of sickle cell disease was 6% (66/1100). The HemoTypeSC test demonstrated a sensitivity of 99% and a specificity of 100%. Significant correlations were observed, showing a higher prevalence in boys (p Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of early screening for sickle cell disease in children under 5 years of age in Mbujimayi. A proactive, targeted approach not only makes it possible to detect the disease at an early stage, but also to direct efforts towards appropriate management and better prevention of the complications associated with sickle cell disease. The HemoTypeSC immunochromatographic test is proving to be a valuable tool for screening for sickle cell disease in primary care.