Bibliographic information
GuidelineWHO consolidated guidelines for the management of common childhood illness: management of sickle-cell disease in children and adolescents
Year of Publication2026
Issuing InstitutionWorld Health Organization
Recommendation
New
In children and adolescents (aged 9 months to 19 years) with sickle-cell anaemia (SCA), hydroxyurea therapy is recommended regardless of clinical severity.
Recommended in favor
Strong
Certainty of evidence
Low
Notes and Remarks
- Appropriate dosing and regular monitoring are essential to optimize the therapeutic benefits of hydroxyurea and minimize the risk of adverse events.
- Health care providers should offer clear, age-appropriate information to caregivers, children and adolescents to support informed decision-making and adherence.
- Acceptability and uptake of hydroxyurea can be enhanced through effective communication, counselling and advocacy by health care providers.
- Adolescents receiving hydroxyurea should be counselled on the need for contraception, as hydroxyurea is contraindicated during the first trimester of pregnancy due to potential embryo-fetal toxicity.