Genetic variants in red blood cell adhesion-related genes influence the severity of sickle cell anemia in a malaria-endemic region : Short title: Genetic variants in red blood cell adhesion-related genes in sickle cell anemia

Abstract

Background: Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a genetic disease marked by abnormal hemoglobin S and sickle-shaped red blood cells. It is highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, especially in Angola, where SCA and malaria are major causes of childhood mortality. This study aimed to explore whether genetic variants in genes associated with red blood cell adhesion to the vascular endothelium influence the manifestations of SCA in Angolan pediatric patients in the context of malaria.