Neonatal screening for sickle cell disorders in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso: a pilot study

Objectives: To determine the incidence of sickle cell disorders (SCDs) and the feasibility of a neonatal screening programme in Ouagadougou. Methods: During 2000, 2003 and 2004, 2341 cord blood samples obtained in five maternity hospitals in Ouagadougou were screened for SCDs using an isoelectric focusing technique. The feasibility of a neonatal screening programme was evaluated. Results: The incidence of SCD was 1:57; 14 neonates were homozygous for haemoglobin (Hb)S and 27 were compound heterozygotes for HbSC. Thirty-two neonates were homozygous for HbC. The incidence of the HbC trait was 1:6; incidence of the HbS trait was 1:14. A centralized laboratory for neonatal screening of SCDs was established. Conclusions: SCDs should be considered a major public health problem in Ouagadougou. A neonatal screening programme should be implemented, but to be effective it requires strategies adapted to the local situation.