[Neonatal screening for sickle cell disease in South Kivu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo : a hospital-based cross-sectional study].

Newborn screening for sickle cell disease (SCD) is a key public health intervention. Data from eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are limited. This study assessed the prevalence of SCD and the feasibility of screening in maternity units in South Kivu. Cord blood was analyzed by mass spectrometry. Among 1.300 newborns, 128 had sickle cell trait (9.8 %; 95 % CI: 8.2-11.5 %), and no homozygous cases. Screening is feasible at birth and findings support its integration into routine maternal and child health services.