Introduction: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a promising therapy for sickle cell anemia, offering a potential cure. However, its access is limited by economic obstacles, such as high costs, shortage of compatible donors, and specialized infrastructure. The lack of financial resources in developing countries and the scarcity of public policies aggravate the situation. Objective: To investigate the therapeutic potential of stem cells in the treatment of patients with sickle cell anemia, evaluating their efficacy, safety, and impact on patients' quality of life. Methodology: an integrative review of articles published between 2013 and 2024 in the PubMed/MEDLINE and BVS databases was carried out, focusing on clinical outcomes and impact on quality of life. The analysis was divided into three axes: benefits, risks and limitations, and economic and social obstacles. Results and Discussion: HSCT has been an effective option for sickle cell anemia since the 1990s, with success rates of up to 95%. It offers cure in up to 90% of cases, but presents risks such as graft-versus-host disease and long-term complications. Alternatives, such as umbilical cord blood stem cell transplantation and gene therapies, are being explored, but with lower success rates and safety and cost challenges. Conclusion: Although effective, HSCT faces economic, clinical and social barriers to its large-scale implementation. Reducing clinical risks and overcoming economic barriers, in addition to public policies to finance treatment and improve health infrastructure, are essential to make HSCT accessible, especially in low-income countries.
