WHO Unveils First Global Guidelines for Sickle Cell Disease Management in Pregnancy

On June 19, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) released its inaugural global guidelines concerning the management of sickle cell disease (SCD) during pregnancy. This landmark document addresses a significant health issue that poses life-threatening risks to both mothers and their infants. Sickle cell disease is characterized by the presence of abnormally shaped red blood cells, which can lead to severe anemia, acute pain crises, and other critical complications.

The newly published guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations aimed at improving pregnancy outcomes for women with SCD. According to Dr. Pascale Allotey, Director for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research at WHO, the document aims to enhance access to effective treatments during pregnancy and ensure that healthcare providers are equipped with the necessary knowledge to manage this neglected condition effectively.

SCD affects approximately 7.7 million individuals globally, a figure that has surged by over 40% since 2000. It is estimated to cause more than 375,000 deaths annually, primarily in malaria-endemic regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, which accounts for nearly 80% of cases. The disease's prevalence is also rising in other areas, including parts of the Middle East and South Asia, which necessitates a broader understanding of its implications in maternity care.

Women with SCD face a dramatically increased risk of maternal mortality—between four to eleven times higher than those without the condition. They also experience heightened rates of obstetric complications, such as pre-eclampsia, and their infants are at greater risk of stillbirth and low birth weight. The guidelines emphasize the necessity of individualized care tailored to the specific needs and medical histories of women, with a strong focus on respectful treatment and the reduction of stigma in healthcare settings.

Dr. Doris Chou, a Medical Officer at WHO and the lead author of the guidelines, underscored the importance of early discussions regarding care options for pregnant women with SCD. The guidelines advocate for interdisciplinary care teams that may include hematologists, obstetrician-gynecologists, and pediatricians to ensure comprehensive support throughout the pregnancy.

Preliminary studies indicate that with appropriate healthcare interventions, women with SCD can achieve safer pregnancies and better health outcomes for their children. However, the guidelines also highlight that more investments are needed in research and clinical trials specifically focused on women with SCD, a demographic that has historically been underrepresented.

The release of these guidelines is the first in a series from WHO aimed at managing noncommunicable diseases during pregnancy. Future publications will address other chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and mental health disorders, reflecting the growing recognition of these issues as significant contributors to maternal and newborn mortality.

The WHO's initiative emphasizes the urgency of expanding access to quality healthcare for women with SCD, particularly in regions where healthcare resources are limited. This comprehensive approach aims to change the narrative around SCD and improve health outcomes not only for affected women but also for their children, paving the way for a healthier future.