What is it about?
Children with sickle cell disease face challenges that go beyond their health. Our study found that one in three children with the condition experienced chronic school absenteeism, putting them at risk of falling behind academically. Missing school because of illness can affect learning, confidence, and future opportunities. We hope these findings encourage closer collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, families, and policymakers so that children living with sickle cell disease can stay engaged in education while receiving the care they need.
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Why is it important?
Education plays an important role in shaping a child's future, yet children living with sickle cell disease often face barriers that make regular school attendance difficult. When these children miss school, the consequences can extend beyond the classroom and affect their learning, confidence, and future opportunities. By drawing attention to the educational impact of sickle cell disease, this study provides evidence that can help healthcare providers, educators, and policymakers better support affected children and ensure that they are not left behind because of a chronic illness.
Perspectives
This study was inspired by the children and families I have encountered through my daily work. I have often seen the medical challenges associated with sickle cell disease, but I became increasingly curious about how those challenges affect children's everyday lives, particularly their education. Conducting this research reinforced for me that health and education are closely connected. I hope this work encourages more conversations about supporting children with sickle cell disease in ways that extend beyond clinical care and consider their overall wellbeing and future aspirations.
Juliane Peninah Nattimba
Makerere University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: School absenteeism among children and adolescents aged 6–19 years with sickle cell disease in Uganda: A comparative cross-sectional study, PLOS One, May 2026, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0350308.
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