# Sickle Cell Disease at a Tertiary Care Center in the Vidarbha Region of India: Protocol for a Clinical and Observational Study

## TL;DR

This study examines sickle cell anemia in India's Vidarbha region to understand its clinical features and lifestyle factors, aiming to improve regional healthcare strategies.

## Contribution

The study provides region-specific data on sickle cell anemia in Vidarbha, focusing on clinical and lifestyle factors.

## Key findings

- The study will highlight the need for targeted public health initiatives for sickle cell anemia in the Vidarbha region.
- Findings may emphasize the importance of comprehensive screening and tailored care strategies for affected individuals.

## Abstract

More than 20 million individuals worldwide, especially in the Vidarbha region of India, are affected by sickle cell anemia (SCA), a hereditary condition that results in aberrant hemoglobin S and red blood cell distortion. The condition leads to anemia, organ complications, and recurrent pain crises, making region-specific data necessary for efficient therapy and public health initiatives.

The goal of the study is to examine the clinical characteristics and unusual manifestations of SCA in the Vidarbha region, with an emphasis on dietary practices, clinical presentations, demographic distribution, and lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and smoking.

This observational cross-sectional study with random sampling will be conducted at Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital in Wardha for 3 months. We will recruit 131 individuals aged 18 to 50 years with dominant hemoglobin S and a positive sickling test. A standardized questionnaire addressing clinical symptoms, nutrition, substance use, inheritance patterns, and demographic information will be used to gather data. SPSS (version 17; IBM Corp) will be used for statistical analysis. Data will be summarized using descriptive statistics. Group differences will be evaluated using inferential tests such as 1-way ANOVA, independent 2-tailed t tests, and chi-square tests. Associations between symptoms and lifestyle variables will be investigated by correlation analysis. Statistical significance is defined as a 2-tailed P value <.05.

The anticipated findings may support the need for targeted regional public health initiatives and underscore the importance of comprehensive screening, detailed patient history, and tailored care strategies for individuals with SCA. As of January 2026, this observational study has not received external funding. Participant recruitment and data collection commenced in January 2026 and are currently ongoing. Data analysis will be undertaken following completion of data collection, and the final results are expected to be submitted for publication in April 2026.

The findings will support the need for focused regional public health initiatives and emphasize the need for thorough screening, patient history, and customized care techniques for SCA.