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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Sickle Cell Disease Mutation Screening

Detects genetic mutations associated with sickle cell disease, a condition affecting hemoglobin. Essential for early diagnosis and management.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Peripheral blood collected in an EDTA Vacutainer tube (2 ml).
Results
3-4 days. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
A doctor's prescription is required for this test, except for cases involving surgery, pregnancy, or individuals planning to travel abroad. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Test priceKSh 10,500

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Sickle Cell Disease Mutation Screening test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Family history of sickle cell disease.
  • ✓Symptoms suggestive of sickle cell disease (e.g., pain, anemia).
  • ✓Planning pregnancy, especially in high-risk ethnic groups.
  • ✓Pre-travel screening for areas with high prevalence.
  • ✓Newborn screening programs.
  • ✓Carrier screening for family planning.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies individuals with sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait, enabling early intervention, genetic counseling, and informed reproductive planning.
Sickle Cell Disease Mutation Screening is a genetic test designed to identify specific mutations in the hemoglobin gene that cause sickle cell disease. This condition results in the production of abnormal hemoglobin, which can lead to various health problems. Early detection through this screening is crucial for effective management and improving patient outcomes. The test looks for mutations in the HBB gene, responsible for beta-globin, a key part of hemoglobin. Identifying these mutations helps healthcare providers assess an individual's risk of having sickle cell disease or being a carrier. Discuss results with a healthcare professional for interpretation and guidance.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationA doctor's prescription is required for this test, except for cases involving surgery, pregnancy, or individuals planning to travel abroad. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
SamplePeripheral blood collected in an EDTA Vacutainer tube (2 ml).
MethodologyEnd Point PCR.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test screens for common mutations associated with sickle cell disease. It may not detect all possible rare mutations. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Sickle cell disease is an inherited condition where red blood cells are shaped like sickles or crescents. This abnormal shape can cause blockages and lead to various health complications.
Individuals with a family history of the disease, those of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, or Indian descent are at higher risk. Carrier screening is recommended for couples planning a family.
A positive result indicates the presence of mutations associated with sickle cell disease or trait. Further consultation with a healthcare provider is necessary to understand the specific implications.
The test involves a simple blood draw, which may cause minimal discomfort. Our trained phlebotomists ensure the procedure is as comfortable as possible.
Yes, we offer home sample collection services for your convenience. Please contact us to arrange an appointment.
The current price for the Sickle Cell Disease Mutation Screening is KSh 10,500. Please contact us for the most up-to-date pricing information.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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