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The Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition
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ISSN: 1606-0997 EISSN: 1606-0997
Vol. 36, No. 1, 2017, pp. 1-10
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Bioline Code: hn17030
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge
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The Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition, Vol. 36, No. 1, 2017, pp. 1-10
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Socio-demographic characteristics and psychosocial consequences of sickle cell disease: the case of patients in a public hospital in Ghana
Adzika, Vincent A.; Glozah, Franklin N.; Ayim-Aboagye, Desmond & Ahorlu, Collins S. K.
Abstract
Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is of major public health concern globally, with majority of patients living in
Africa. Despite its relevance, there is a dearth of research to determine the socio-demographic distribution and
psychosocial impact of SCD in Ghana. The objective of this study was to examine the socio-demographic distribution
and psychosocial consequences of SCD among patients in Ghana and to assess their quality of life and coping
mechanisms.
Methods: A cross-sectional research design was used that involved the completion of questionnaires on sociodemographic
characteristics, quality of life, coping mechanisms, anxiety and depression. Participants were 387 male
and female patients attending a sickle cell clinic in a public hospital.
Results: Results showed that majority of the patients were single, female, less than 39 years old and had attained
secondary school level of education or less. Also, patients were more satisfied by the presence of love, friends and
relatives as well as home, community and neighbourhood environment. While pains of varied nature and severity
were the major reasons for attending hospital in SCD condition, going to the hospital as well as having faith in God
was the most frequently reported mechanisms for coping with an unbearable SCD attacks. Results of multiple
regression analysis showed that some socio-demographic and quality of life indicators had strong associations with
anxiety and/or depression.
Conclusions: It is recommended that a holistic intervention strategy incorporating psychosocial dimensions should be
considered in the treatment and management of SCD.
Keywords
Sickle cell disease; Quality of life; Anxiety; Depression; Socio-demographic characteristics; Ghana
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© Copyright 2017 - The Author(s) Alternative site location: http://www.jhpn.net
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