Incidence of clinical malaria and asymptomatic parasitaemia among African children living with sickle cell disease: a multicentre prospective longitudinal cohort study protocol

Abstract

Introduction Sickle cell disease is a monogenic blood disorder prevalent in Africa, where malaria poses a health risk for affected individuals. Individuals with sickle cell disease are susceptible to malaria, which can be complicated by vaso-occlusive episodes, severe anaemia and death. Understanding the intersection of malaria and sickle cell disease in African countries with high co-prevalence is essential for developing effective management and prevention strategies, including clinical guidelines on the use of malaria chemoprophylaxis in this population. This study will determine the monthly incidence of malaria in children living with sickle cell disease in each of two clusters of African countries.