A new study is calling for wider sickle cell screening in Tanzania after uncovering unexpectedly high rates of sickle cell disease (SCD) in the country’s southern highlands. The findings, published on The East African Health Research Journal recently, raise concerns about undetected cases and highlight the urgent need to expand screening nationwide.

High prevalence detected in Mbeya region

Scientists from Tanzania and the UK — including from the Ifakara Health Institute — carried out screening in Chunya district, Mbeya Region. More than 500 villagers were tested, revealing that 1.91% were living with SCD while 8.41% carried the sickle cell trait (SCT).

Most of the patients identified with SCD were five years old or younger, underscoring the vulnerability of young patients in areas where diagnosis and treatment often come too late.

Why this matter

Tanzania has the fifth highest prevalence of SCD worldwide. Each year, around 11,000 babies are born with the condition, but only 10% survive to age five. Limited early screening, especially in rural region, means many children are identified only after severe complications develop.

The study’s findings help close existing knowledge gaps and offer fresh insights into the true burden of SCD in regions such as the southern highlands, where prevalence has long been underestimated.

Climate migration linked to shifting sickle cell patterns

The researchers note that migration linked to climate change — particularly movement in search of fertile land — may be altering the geographical distribution of SCD. Regions previously considered low-prevalence are now reporting increased cases, prompting calls for nationwide monitoring.

Demographic factors linked to sickle cell trait

The study also examined demographic factors influencing SCT. Having a mother from the Southern Zone appeared to be protective, while having a father from the Northern Zone significantly increased the likelihood of carrying the trait.

Call for new screening strategies

To reduce the national burden of SCD, the researchers recommend developing “new strategies of screening to enable timely diagnosis and management of the disease.”

They also emphasize the urgent need for community-based screening programmes, expanded access to diagnostic tools, and increased public awareness. Without such measures, they warn, thousands of children could continue to miss essential care.

Ifakara scientist among key contributors

Ifakara Health Institute researcher Moshi Moshi Shabani was among the scientists who contributed to the study. He collaborated with experts from Regency Medical Center, the One Health Society (OHS), Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital, Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences, and University College London Hospitals (UK), reflecting a strong partnership between Tanzanian and UK institutions.

Read the publication, here.