| dc.description.abstract |
Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of inherited blood diseases in
which the affected person inherits two abnormal haemoglobin genes from both
parents and characterized by lifelong symptoms of anemia, vaso-occlusive crisis
(VOCs) and end organ damage. Pulmonary complications that precipitate
decline in lung function are contributors to morbidity and mortality.
Determination of lung function can enable early detection of derangements
allowing for timely institution of appropriate interventions to delay progression
of symptoms.
Aims: This study evaluated the lung function patterns and their determinants in
persons aged 6–17 years with confirmed SCD diagnosis.
Methods: One hundred and thirty-eight participants diagnosed with SCD
attending care at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital in
Kisumu, Kenya were recruited. Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics
were obtained using a structured questionnaire and the lung function
determined using spirometry (NDD Easy-On PC).
Results: Abnormal lung function was noted in 27.5% (39/138) of which 66.7%
(26/39) and 33.3% (13/39) were restrictive and obstructive type respectively
with none being mixed. Residing in an urban setting [OR = 1.4026 (95%
CI = 0.6508, 3.0230), p = 0.3878] underweight [1.9328 (0.5745, 6.5023)
p = 0.2871], and using charcoal [1.3579 (0.6026, 3.0597 p = 0.4604] were not
significantly associated with abnormal lung function, while, being on a stable
hydroxyurea dose [0.8391 (0.3521, 1.9997) p = 0.6921] and hospital admission
[0.9803 (0.4564, 2.1059) p = 0.9594] were negatively related.
Conclusion: Therefore, abnormal lung function is common in young persons
living with SCD in Lake Victoria Basin region thus, there is need for targeted
lung function evaluation for appropriate and timely intervention. |
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