WHO issues first global guideline to improve pregnancy care for women with sickle cell disease

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its firstever global guideline on the management of sickle cell disease (SCD) during pregnancy, addressing a critical and growing health challenge that can have life-threatening consequences for both women and babies. Health risks associated with SCD intensify during pregnancy, due to heightened demands on the body's oxygen and nutrient supply.

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Women with SCD face a 4- to 11fold higher likelihood of maternal death than those without. They are more likely to experience obstetric complications like pre-eclampsia, while their