EPIDEMIOLOGICAL OVERVIEW OF SICKLE CELL ANEMIA IN BRAZIL AND WORLDWIDE

Abstract

Sickle cell anemia is one of the most prevalent inherited hemoglobin disorders worldwide and represents an important public health problem, particularly among populations of African ancestry. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological panorama of sickle cell anemia at global and national levels, with emphasis on disease distribution, genetic determinants, and associated regional and racial inequalities. This literature review was conducted between January and September 2025, based on scientific publications and institutional documents available in SciELO, PubMed, LILACS, and BVS databases, as well as official sources from the World Health Organization, Pan American Health Organization, and the Brazilian Ministry of Health. The findings indicate a high burden of morbidity and mortality, with a greater concentration of cases in low- and middle-income countries and a substantial impact in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Brazil, the disease shows an unequal distribution, with a greater impact on the Black population and limitations related to underdiagnosis, underreporting, and unequal access to specialized services. Despite advances in public policies, neonatal screening, and healthcare organization, regional and racial inequalities remain and compromise comprehensive care. It is concluded that strengthening epidemiological surveillance, expanding access to diagnosis and treatment, and reducing health inequities are essential to improve outcomes for people with sickle cell disease.