Nigeria has the highest number of children living with sickle cell disease globally, with more than 1.5 million affected, according to a new study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health.
The study found that nearly nine million children across sub-Saharan Africa were living with the condition in 2023, including about 1.17 million infants and 2.75 million children under the age of five, who face the highest risk of early death without treatment.
Nigeria accounts for the largest share of this burden, surpassing countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Ethiopia, underscoring the scale of the health challenge in the country.
The research, led by Davies Adeloye of Teesside University, analysed data from 40 studies across 22 African countries, providing one of the most comprehensive estimates of childhood sickle cell disease in the region.
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder present at birth and, if not properly managed, can lead to severe complications and early death.
Experts noted that early diagnosis and access to low-cost interventions—such as newborn screening, vaccinations, malaria prevention and appropriate medication—can significantly reduce complications and improve survival rates.
However, access to these services remains limited in Nigeria, with many children diagnosed only after severe complications or not diagnosed at all.
Adeloye said Nigeria is at the centre of the global sickle cell challenge, noting that the country also has the greatest opportunity to lead efforts to address the disease.
“With over 1.5 million children affected, the scale is enormous, but so is the opportunity to act. We already know what works,” he said.
He stressed the need to prioritise sickle cell disease within national health policies and integrate care into routine maternal and child health services.
The study called for urgent action, including expanding newborn screening programmes, improving access to essential medicines and strengthening primary healthcare systems.
It also recommended increased domestic investment, supported by international partnerships, to enhance treatment and prevention efforts.
Health experts said improving early detection and treatment could significantly reduce preventable deaths among children and improve long-term health outcomes.
They added that strengthening data systems and surveillance would be key to guiding effective policy responses.
Stakeholders noted that even modest improvements in early-life care in high-burden countries like Nigeria could transform child survival rates and reduce the impact of the disease.
The findings highlight the urgent need for coordinated action by government, healthcare providers and development partners to address one of the leading causes of preventable childhood illness in the country.