Sickle cell disease is poorly understood amongst pharmacists – PDA report reveals

Despite being the most common genetic disorder in the UK, sickle cell disease (SCD) remains significantly underfunded and underserved compared to other genetic
disorders, according to a new report published by the PDA BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) Pharmacists’ Network.

The report also reveals that the disease is poorly understood within the healthcare system, including amongst pharmacists, pharmacy students, and foundation
pharmacists in the UK.

It emphasises the urgent need for increased awareness, funding, and improved healthcare access for SCD amongst these healthcare professionals.

“A lack of education about SCD within the wider healthcare community, including pharmacy, greatly contributes to disparities in care.

“Though the importance of SCD education for pharmacists and allied healthcare professionals is acknowledged, it remains unclear whether this topic is adequately
addressed within the MPharm curriculum,” the report said.

The report further noted that in the absence of explicit guidance from the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) or the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern
Ireland (PSNI) and without more comprehensive education surrounding SCD embedded within the pharmacy curriculum, pharmacists and future pharmacists may
remain “ill-prepared to manage patients with this complex condition.”

As per the report, sickle cell disease is the most prevalent genetic disorder globally, impacting millions, including around 17,000 people in England.