In which population is sickle cell anemia most commonly found?

Sickle cell anemia is most commonly found in individuals of African and Middle Eastern descent due to the historical context of the disease and its connection to malaria. The sickle cell trait provides some level of protection against malaria, an advantage that has favored its prevalence in populations where malaria is or was endemic.

The genetic mutation that causes sickle cell anemia arises from a single amino acid substitution in the hemoglobin gene, leading to the production of abnormal hemoglobin (hemoglobin S). This abnormality results in the characteristic sickle-shaped red blood cells that are less effective at transporting oxygen and have a tendency to block blood flow in capillaries, leading to various health complications.

In contrast, the frequency of sickle cell anemia in other populations, such as those of Asian, European, or Latin American descent, is significantly lower. This is primarily due to the absence of the selective pressure of malaria in those regions, which has contributed to lower rates of the sickle cell gene in those populations.