Webinar title: Hydroxyurea Treatment for Sickle Cell Disease: Relief for the Few or Necessity for Many?
This webinar will explore the impact of sickle cell disease (SCD) and highlight the importance of disease-modifying treatments such as hydroxyurea. The session will discuss the proven benefits of hydroxyurea in improving quality of life and survival for patients with SCD, and address the urgent need to eliminate barriers to ensure equitable access to this life-changing therapy.
Speaker: Dr. Isaac Odame, Paediatric Haematologist
Dr. Isaac Odame is the Hematology Section Head in the Division of Hematology/Oncology and the Medical Director of the Global Sickle Cell Disease Network at the Centre for Global Child Health at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids). He is a Professor and former Director of Adult and Pediatric Haematology in the Departments of Medicine and Paediatrics at the University of Toronto. His work fosters global collaborations to advance research and care for sickle cell disease, particularly in low-income countries with the heaviest disease burden. Odame leads clinical studies on novel disease-modifying and curative therapies for SCD, as well as implementation research in Africa. He chairs the World Coalition on Sickle Cell Disease.
Objectives:
- Summarize the impact of sickle cell disease on morbidity and mortality
- Address key questions surrounding hydroxyurea therapy, including the most pressing questions from patients and providers
- Explore how long-term hydroxyurea therapy significantly reduces sickle cell-related mortality and improves patient outcomes
- Discuss the barriers to accessing hydroxyurea treatment globally and how to combat them
Date: Thursday, 19th of June 2025
Time: 15:00 CAT
Duration: 60 min
CPD Points: 1