Is Obesity an Issue with sickle cell patients?

Obesity can indeed be an issue among individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Historically, people with SCD have been considered underweight due to the disease’s metabolic demands. However, recent research indicates a shift, with increasing rates of overweight and obesity in this population. Studies have found that overweight and obesity rates in youth with SCD range between 19% and 22% [2]. Additionally, obesity has been shown to worsen the pain impact in individuals with SCD [1].

This change aligns with the overall trend of increasing body mass index (BMI) in the general population. It highlights the need for monitoring weight and addressing obesity as part of comprehensive care in SCD. Obesity in SCD patients can complicate the disease management and potentially exacerbate symptoms, making it an important health concern.

Sources

• jpain.org – (228) Obesity worsens pain impact in individuals with sickle …
• ncbi.nlm.nih.gov – Weight Status and Health Behaviors of Adolescents …
• pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov – Characterising the prevalence of overweight and obese …
• onlinelibrary.wiley.com – Characterising the prevalence of overweight and obese …
• bmjpaedsopen.bmj.com – High body mass index in children with sickle cell disease
• sciencedirect.com – Prevalence of High BMI Status in Adults with Sickle Cell …