Physiological Management of Sickle Cell Disease in Adolescents Attending the Haematology Clinic of University College Hospital, Ibadan

Adolescents with sickle cell disease require tailored physiological management strategies that account for the dual physiological demands of puberty and a chronic haemoglobinopathy. This study assessed physiological management practices and associated health outcomes among adolescents with sickle cell disease attending the Haematology Clinic of University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, South West Nigeria. A retrospective review of 80 adolescent case files was conducted alongside a prospective cross-sectional component involving 60 enrolled patients aged 11 to 18 years. Haematological indices, crisis frequency, hydroxyurea use, folic acid supplementation, vaccination status, and physiological growth parameters were extracted. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results showed that adolescents on hydroxyurea had significantly fewer crises and higher haemoglobin levels. Growth parameters including height-for-age were below the fifth percentile in 43.3 percent of patients, indicating chronic growth failure. Vaccination compliance was low, with 36.7 percent having received all recommended prophylactic vaccines. Folic acid supplementation was prescribed for 88.3 percent but adherence was self-reported as consistent in only 61.7 percent. The study concludes that physiological management of adolescent sickle cell disease in Ibadan requires stronger attention to growth monitoring, vaccination, and medication adherence support. Structured adolescent-focused sickle cell care protocols are recommended. Keywords: sickle cell disease, adolescents, hydroxyurea, growth, Ibadan.