DNA damage in leukocytes of sickle cell anemia patients is associated with hydroxyurea therapy and with HBB*S haplotype

► The mutagenicity in sickle cell anemia is associated with genetic polymorphisms. ► Damage index to the Bantu haplotype was greater than the Benin haplotype. ► The HU therapy is associated with greater damage index. ► Damage index is associated with dose and length of treatment of HU. ► Damage index is associated with body mass index to the patients.