Genetic Adaptations and Malaria Prophylaxis in Sickle Cell Disease: Reducing Morbidity and Mortality

Authors

Fuseina Gimballa, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Internal Medicine

Advisor

Dr. James Kilgore

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between sickle cell disease (SCD) and malaria, focusing on the benefits and risks of the sickle cell trait, complications associated with SCD, and the impact of malaria infection in endemic regions. The paper emphasizes the importance of antimalarial prophylaxis for patients with SCD living in these areas. Evidence suggests a genetic adaptation in populations exposed to malaria, where a β-globin mutation provides partial protection against infection in individuals with the sickle cell trait. Studies consistently show that heterozygous carriers are largely protected from severe malaria, whereas individuals with homozygous SCD remain highly susceptible, resulting in malaria-related complications and, in severe cases, death. These findings underscore the need for malaria chemoprophylaxis to reduce morbidity and mortality in SCD.

Given malaria’s global health burden, integrating prophylaxis into SCD management is crucial to lowering morbidity and mortality. Sickle cell–related complications, such as painful crises, significantly affect quality of life, and minimizing these through preventive strategies offers a clear benefit. Future research should focus on identifying biomarkers for prophylaxis and vaccine development, predicting malaria severity in SCD, and clarifying the role of malaria parasites in triggering sickling. Further investigation is also warranted to determine whether hydroxyurea—currently the cornerstone of SCD therapy—affects malaria infection rates in individuals affected by SCD.

Keywords: sickle cell trait, sickle cell disease, genetic mutation, malaria, malaria chemoprophylaxis

Recommended Citation

Gimballa F. Genetic Adaptations and Malaria Prophylaxis in Sickle Cell Disease: Reducing Morbidity and Mortality. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2025; 7(3).