According to a report by the African Development Bank, 20% of Africans are undernourished, revealing a worrying rise in food insecurity and malnutrition on the continent. Dependence on the global food market has exposed Africa to external shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukrainian crisis.
On the occasion of World Sickle Cell Day on 19 June, it is worth remembering that this genetic disease remains a major concern in sub-Saharan Africa, with a prevalence of up to 40% in heterozygous forms and 2% in homozygous forms. What is the current state of research and treatment for this disease, and what is its economic impact in Africa?
Blood transfusion is an essential part of today’s therapeutic arsenal, whether in gynaecology, surgery, traumatology, or for the treatment of certain diseases such as sickle cell anaemia or Ebola haemorrhagic fever. Unfortunately, blood donation in Africa is still too often hampered by beliefs that limit its effectiveness.