Quality of Life, Cardiopulmonary Function, Body Composition and Physical Activity Levels in Individuals with Sickle-Cell Disease: A Lagos-based Study

Abstract

Background: Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a prevalent inherited haematological disorder associated with high morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite medical advancements, individuals with SCD face numerous health challenges impacting their quality of life (QoL). This study explored the interrelationships among QoL, cardiopulmonary function, body composition, and physical activity levels in individuals with SCD.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Sickle Cell Clinic and the Sickle Cell Aid Foundation at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) among volunteer individuals with sickle cell disease. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, QoL, physical activity levels, body composition, and cardiopulmonary parameters were collected using standardized instruments and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20. Significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results: Eighty-seven individuals with SCD participated (66% female; mean age 27.1 ± 7.3 years). Mean BMI was 20.2 ± 2.7 kg/m², with 58.6% reporting low physical activity levels. Sleep, pain, and emotional impact significantly affected QoL. Males exhibited higher systolic blood pressure, forced vital capacity, expiratory volume, and peak expiratory flow rates. QoL correlated positively with oxygen saturation (r = 0.276, p = 0.012) but showed a non-significant negative correlation with body fat percentage (r = -0.106, p = 0.366).

Conclusion: This study identified significant relationships between QoL and oxygen saturation, with significant correlations between cardiopulmonary function and body composition in this population. The findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions aimed at improving cardiopulmonary health and body composition to improve overall well-being and manage SCD complications more effectively.