Sickle Cell Disease and Occupational Participation Among Young Adults in Ibadan, Oyo State

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a highly prevalent genetic disorder in Nigeria that presents unique occupational health challenges for affected individuals transitioning into the workforce. This study examined the relationship between SCD status and occupational participation among young adults in Ibadan, Oyo State, South West Nigeria. A comparative descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, involving 100 young adults with confirmed SCD (HbSS) and 100 matched non-SCD controls recruited from two tertiary health institutions and community settings. Data were collected using the Model of Human Occupation Screening Tool and a structured occupational exposure questionnaire. Results indicated that SCD patients had significantly lower occupational participation scores across physical, cognitive, and social domains (p less than 0.001). Frequent sick leave episodes, limited mobility during vaso-occlusive crises, and reduced physical stamina were the primary barriers to sustained employment. Only 23 percent of SCD participants were in formal employment, compared to 67 percent of controls. Employers' lack of knowledge about SCD and associated workplace accommodation needs was identified as a critical structural barrier. This study recommends the development of workplace reasonable accommodation guidelines for SCD employees, integration of SCD counseling into occupational health services, and awareness campaigns targeting employers and HR practitioners in Oyo State. Keywords: sickle cell disease, occupational participation, young adults, workplace accommodation, Ibadan.