Hospitalization Disparities Among Children with Sickle Cell Disease: The Significance of Race, Age, and Health Status

Authors: Justin Shade, Cordelia Martin-Ikpe, Titilayo Okoror

Field of Study: Health and Wellness

Faculty Mentors: Cordelia Martin-Ikpe, Titilayo Okoror

Easel: 49

Timeslot: Morning

Abstract: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary disorder where red blood cells (RBCs) become rigid and sickle-shaped, causing vaso-occlusive crises and severe pain. SCD affects 100,000 Americans, with about 1 in 13 Black babies born with sickle cell trait (SCT). Using data from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) via IPUMS, this study analyzed SCD patients aged 0-19. Cross tabulations, ANOVA, and General Linear Model (GLM) analyses assessed hospitalization rates by race, age, and health status. Black/African American children had significantly higher hospitalization rates. Infants (0-2 years) had the highest hospitalization rate (mean = 1.37), while early childhood (3-6 years) had the lowest (mean = 1.10), with significant differences (p < 0.001). Poor health status was strongly associated with increased hospitalizations (p < 0.001). Black infants were found to be at the highest risk. Future studies should explore drug therapy efficacy across age groups to develop age-appropriate treatments and address hospitalization disparities.