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Hemoglobinopathies and Related Disorders / Iron Metabolism and Disorders · Journal article
Iconic Research and Engineering Journals · August 11, 2026
A consensus or society position rather than new primary data.
This narrative review consolidates evidence on the epidemiology, genetic architecture, and clinical burden of sickle cell disease in India, identifying marked regional, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities. The authors synthesize data on over 215,000 confirmed cases and highlight the predominance of the Arab–Indian haplotype, phenotypic heterogeneity from coinherited genetic modifiers, and gaps in screening and therapeutic access. The review concludes that strengthened universal screening, genotype-informed care, and integrated primary healthcare are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality in India.
Structured narrative review. Studies reporting data on sickle cell disease in Indian populations, including epidemiologic, genetic, clinical, and therapeutic evidence.. India.
India has over 215,000 confirmed SCD cases, with highest burden in central, western, and eastern states among Scheduled Tribes and vulnerable communities. SCD in India is predominantly associated with the Arab–Indian haplotype, often linked to higher fetal hemoglobin levels. Substantial phenotypic heterogeneity exists due to co-inheritance of α- and β-thalassemia, G6PD deficiency, nutritional factors, and environmental influences.
Specific prevalence, incidence, morbidity, and mortality rates for India not provided in abstract.
Clinicians and public health professionals in India should recognize the genetic and phenotypic diversity of SCD across regions and ethnic groups, and the role of genotype-informed management and screening expansion in reducing disparities. Current gaps in access to hydroxyurea and continuity of care represent actionable targets for health system strengthening.
A narrative review synthesizing epidemiologic, genetic, and clinical evidence on SCD in India with recommendations for public health policy and clinical practice strengthening.
As stated by the source record.
Quoted from the source exactly as published.
Clinicians and public health professionals in India should recognize the genetic and phenotypic diversity of SCD across regions and ethnic groups, and the role of genotype-informed management and screening expansion in reducing disparities. Current gaps in access to hydroxyurea and continuity of care represent actionable targets for health system strengthening.
Graded across the dimensions that decide whether you should act, each from what the source actually supports. There is no single score, and where a dimension was not assessed it says so.
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary hemoglobinopathy caused by a β-globin gene mutation leading to hemoglobin S polymerization, chronic hemolytic anemia, vaso-occlusion, and progressive multi-organ damage. India represents one of the largest global contributors to SCD burden, with pronounced geographic, ethnic, and socioeconomic heterogeneity, particularly affecting tribal and marginalized populations. This review aims to synthesize contemporary evidence on the epidemiology, genetic modifiers, clinical spectrum, and public health response to SCD in India, highlighting key disparities, challenges, and opportunities for disease control. A structured narrative review was conducted using peer-reviewed literature retrieved from PubMed, Science Direct, and allied databases, supplemented by government reports and national program documents. Studies published between 2000 and 2025 reporting epidemiologic, genetic, clinical, or therapeutic data on Indian SCD populations were included. Evidence was thematically synthesized, with findings summarized across geographic distribution, genetic modifiers, and clinical outcomes. India has over 215,000 confirmed SCD cases, with the highest burden concentrated in central, western, and eastern states, particularly among Scheduled Tribes and vulnerable communities. SCD in India is predominantly associated with the Arab–Indian haplotype, often linked to higher fetal hemoglobin levels, yet substantial phenotypic heterogeneity exists due to co-inheritance of α- and β-thalassemia, G6PD deficiency, nutritional factors, and environmental influences. Patients experience a wide spectrum of acute and chronic complications, including vaso-occlusive crises, infections, acute chest syndrome, and progressive organ damage. Expanded screening programs and hydroxyurea therapy have improved detection and outcomes, though gaps in access and continuity of care persist. SCD in India remains a major public health challenge characterized by marked regional and genetic diversity. Strengthening universal screening, integrating genotype-informed care, and reinforcing primary healthcare and national initiatives are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality and achieve sustainable disease control.
Taken from the source record, never inferred. Follow any of these and new work involving them reaches your briefing.