A Review of the Literature: Use of the Health Belief Model in Sickle Cell Research

Individuals with sickle cell disease experience a life-time of morbidity as well as a decreased lifespan. Since African Americans are disproportionately affected by the disease, sickle cell contributes to growing health disparities within this population. Thus, addressing issues related to the disease presents an increased need for health education programming. A narrative literature review was conducted to assess the application of the health belief model in sickle cell trait screening research. Research articles were identified through an interdisciplinary search of peer-reviewed manuscripts. Articles including the following three criteria were selected for review: (1) use of the health belief model, (2) application to sickle cell disease/sickle cell trait, and (3) practical implementation in the field of public health education. Findings from this review indicate that the health belief model is not effective in all sickle cell trait screening interventions. Additional theories of health behavior should be considered when designing health education programs and interventions geared toward sickle cell screening.