Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a condition where red blood cells take on a sickle shape due to abnormal hemoglobin production. This affects various bodily systems and can lead to growth and developmental delays, including delays in reaching puberty. There is a scarcity of research regarding the sexual development of individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) in India. Aim & Objectives: The current study was conducted with an aim to investigate the sexual maturation process in individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). The objective of study is to examine the impact of sickle cell disease on the development of secondary sexual characters among adolescents. Methods: A total of 45 SCD patients aged 10-16 years were selected from a pediatric department in India. The diagnosis of Sickle Cell Disease was confirmed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. Clinical examinations included Tanner staging, weight, and height measurements, compared to reference values. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 24.0. Results: Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) showed significant differences in growth compared to standard values, particularly in terms of weight and height across various age categories. Sexual maturation, as determined by Tanner staging, exhibited a slower advancement in boys at all stages when compared to the standard ages for Indian individuals. Female patients displayed less consistent patterns, with significant differences observed in certain age groups. Conclusion: The study highlights the occurrence of delayed sexual maturation in Indian patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), particularly in boys. This emphasizes the necessity for customized treatments to specifically target these disparities. Additional investigation is necessary to clarify the intricate relationships between the severity of the disease, the treatment, and the onset of puberty in individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Final Message: It is essential to comprehend the process of sexual maturation in individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) in order to enhance clinical care and achieve better results. Customized interventions targeting growth disparities and delayed sexual maturation are crucial for improving the quality of life for individuals with SCD in India.
