GENETIC MODULATORS OF SICKLE CELL DISEASE IN THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO KU Leuven
Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is the most common hemoglobinopathy worldwide. Developing countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) suffer a heavy burden and the disease-related mortality remains high, up to 50% to 90% before five years of age. Factors that contribute to high mortality include delayed diagnosis due to the scarcity of appropriate laboratory infrastructure, poor access to adequate medical care due to limited financial ...