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In this study, we determined normal values for some haematological parameters in male Sierra Leoneans--Haemaglobin concentration (HB), Packed Cell Volume (PCV), White Blood Cell Count (WBC), Red Blood Cell Count (RCC) and Erythrocyte Sedimentation rate (ESR). The result obtained differ significantly from those found in European text books as normal values for these parameters. We recommend that results obtained from this study replace European reference values for male Sierra Leoneans.

Three thousand five hundred and twenty four (1527 male and 1997 female) samples were screened for the presence of the abnormal haemoglobin--Sickle Cell (HbS) between 1990-1993. 780 (22%) of these show sickle erythrocytes in a reduced oxygen environment. Electrophoretic differentiation of 344 samples positive from the metabisulphite screening test, revealed that 76 are of the homozygous form with 3 being HbSC. Noting the adverse consequences on the health status of those affected and the expense involved in the management of such patients, there is an urgent need for intervention.

The platelet counts of 100 healthy Sierra Leoneans were determined. Fifty six (56) Males and Forty four (44) Females were included in the study. The mean platelet count was 197 x 10(9)/L(SD = 25 x 10(9)/L Range = 115-335 x 10(9)/L The results of this study compare favourably with those obtained from previous studies in other African Countries and confirms that the normal platelet count in the African is lower than in Caucasians.