1.1 Introduction
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder characterized by the presence of abnormally shaped red blood cells, which assume a crescent or “sickle” shape instead of the normal round form (Serjeant, 2013). These deformed cells are prone to blockage in blood vessels, leading to reduced oxygen supply to organs and tissues, recurrent pain episodes, and other serious health complications (Olaniyan & Adeyemo, 2019). In Nigeria, sickle cell disease is highly prevalent, with estimates suggesting that approximately 2–3% of the population are affected, and a significant proportion of adolescents live with the condition (Akinyanju, 2017). Adolescence is a critical stage of development marked by significant cognitive, emotional, and social growth. Educational performance during this period largely determines future opportunities and overall personal development (World Health Organization, 2021).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are significance of the study, scope of work, research hypothesis and questions, limitation of the study and definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by the production of abnormally shaped red blood cells, which assume a crescent or “sickle” form rather than the normal round shape. According to Serjeant (2013), these deformed cells are prone to blockages in the microcirculation, leading to episodes of severe pain, organ damage, anemia, and increased susceptibility to infections. The disease is particularly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, and Nigeria is reported to have one of the highest burdens of SCD globally, with approximately 2–3% of the population affected and a significant proportion being adolescents (Akinyanju, 2017).
Adolescence is a critical stage in human development characterized by rapid physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes. This period is essential for laying the foundation for lifelong learning, skill acquisition, and personal development. However, adolescents living with SCD face unique challenges that significantly influence their educational experiences. According to Olaniyan and Adeyemo (2019), adolescents with SCD often experience frequent pain crises, fatigue, and recurrent hospitalizations, which disrupt school attendance and limit active participation in classroom learning.
Several scholars have asserted that chronic illnesses, such as SCD, are closely linked to academic underachievement in affected students. Ogunfowora and Akinbami (2020) asserted that the cognitive complications associated with SCD, including memory deficits, difficulty concentrating, and reduced mental stamina, contribute significantly to poor academic outcomes. Similarly, Chikezie and Onyeneke (2018) stated that recurrent absences due to health-related challenges reduce the ability of students with SCD to complete assignments on time, prepare adequately for examinations, and maintain consistent academic performance.
Alhassan, Musa, and Bello (2021) affirmed that many schools lack the appropriate support systems and inclusive practices necessary for students with chronic illnesses. Teachers and school administrators often do not receive adequate training or awareness about the implications of SCD on learning, resulting in insufficient classroom accommodations and limited understanding from peers. In addition to the direct health-related and educational challenges, the psychosocial implications of sickle cell disease also play a significant role in shaping academic performance. Adolescents with SCD frequently contend with stigmatization and negative societal perceptions of their health condition, which can lead to social isolation, low self-esteem, and reduced motivation to engage in school activities (Chikezie & Onyeneke, 2018).
According to Adewoye, Oladipo, and Adebayo (2019), these psychosocial barriers further limit educational engagement and hinder the ability of affected students to achieve their full academic potential. Furthermore, the stress associated with chronic illness has been reported to affect learning efficiency, problem-solving abilities, and participation in extracurricular activities, which are essential components of holistic adolescent development.
Health-related absenteeism is another critical aspect that affects educational performance. Ogunfowora and Akinbami (2020) reported that repeated hospital visits and recovery periods during illness episodes significantly reduce classroom exposure, making it difficult for adolescents with SCD to follow the curriculum effectively. They further contended that these interruptions lead to gaps in knowledge acquisition, poor performance in examinations, and limited opportunities for skill development. On the other hand, Alhassan et al. (2021) stated that proactive interventions, such as individualized education plans, health-aware school policies, and flexible learning schedules, can mitigate the adverse effects of SCD on educational outcomes. This study is set against the backdrop of these challenges, seeking to examine the effect of sickle cell disease on adolescent educational performance in Nigeria.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that many schools lack the appropriate structures and support systems to accommodate the unique needs of students with sickle cell disease. Teachers and school administrators may be unaware of how SCD affects learning, leading to inadequate interventions and a lack of tailored educational strategies. As a result, adolescents with SCD are often at risk of academic underachievement, low self-esteem, and increased school dropout rates (Alhassan et al., 2021).
Furthermore, the broader societal stigma associated with chronic illness can discourage adolescents with SCD from participating fully in educational activities or seeking help when necessary (Chikezie & Onyeneke, 2018). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to investigate the effect of sickle cell disease on adolescent educational performance, exploring the specific challenges faced by these students and identifying strategies to mitigate the negative impacts on their learning experiences.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of sickle cell disease on the educational performance of adolescents in Nigeria. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To investigate the extent to which sickle cell disease affects school attendance and academic performance among adolescents.
- To examine the cognitive and psychosocial challenges faced by adolescents with sickle cell disease in educational settings.
- To evaluate the adequacy of school support systems, policies, and teacher awareness regarding students with SCD.
- To identify strategies for improving academic engagement and performance of adolescents with sickle cell disease.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- To what extent does sickle cell disease affect school attendance and academic performance among adolescents?
- What cognitive and psychosocial challenges do adolescents with sickle cell disease face in educational settings?
- How adequate are school support systems, policies, and teacher awareness in addressing the needs of students with SCD?
- What strategies can be implemented to improve academic engagement and performance among adolescents living with sickle cell disease?
1.6 Research Hypotheses
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is no significant relationship between sickle cell disease and the academic performance of adolescents in Nigerian schools.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between sickle cell disease and the academic performance of adolescents in Nigerian schools.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Sickle cell disease does not significantly affect the academic performance of adolescents in Nigerian schools.
- H1: Sickle cell disease significantly affects the academic performance of adolescents in Nigerian schools.
1.7 Significance of Study
It is believed that at the completion of the study, the findings will inform educators, school administrators, and policymakers about the specific challenges faced by students with SCD, thereby promoting inclusive education practices. The research will also benefit parents and caregivers by increasing awareness of the educational needs of adolescents with SCD and offering strategies for support.
Furthermore, the study will enable policymakers to develop inclusive policies that accommodate students with chronic health conditions. In addition, healthcare providers will benefit by understanding the educational implications of SCD, fostering a coordinated approach between medical care and schooling.
Lastly, the study will enrich academic literature by filling gaps on the link between chronic illness and educational performance in Nigeria.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the effect of sickle cell in adolescent educational performance in Lagos State, Nigeria, specifically those enrolled in secondary schools.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD): SCD is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by abnormally shaped red blood cells that impair oxygen delivery to tissues and organs, often leading to pain, fatigue, and other health complications (Serjeant, 2013).
Adolescents: Individuals between the ages of 10 and 19 who are undergoing significant physical, cognitive, and social development (World Health Organization, 2021).
Educational Performance: The level of achievement and academic success demonstrated by students in school, often measured through grades, examination results, and classroom engagement (Ogunfowora & Akinbami, 2020).
Cognitive Challenges: Mental processes affecting learning, memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities, which may be influenced by chronic illness (Olaniyan & Adeyemo, 2019).
Psychosocial Challenges: Social and psychological factors, including stigma, self-esteem, peer relationships, and emotional well-being, that affect an individual's ability to engage in school activities (Chikezie & Onyeneke, 2018).
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