Latest news with #SickleCellDay
India Today
6 hours ago
- Health
- India Today
What is sickle cell disease? All you need to know
On June 19, we recognise World Sickle Cell Day each year to raise awareness of sickle cell disease (SCD), a serious genetic blood disorder that impacts millions of people worldwide. This day provides an opportunity to educate local communities about the challenges patients face, the health care they need, early screening, and 2025, the theme of the day is "Early Detection and Equitable Care for All", with a specific attention to early detection of sickle cell disease and having access to treatment no matter the geographical location where a person lives. There is hope on the horizon with medical research providing new avenues for the management of the disease, particularly for children and underserved IS SICKLE CELL DISEASE?Sickle cell disease is a hereditary disorder of the body that changes the shape of a person's red blood cells (normally round and flexible) to a shape of a sickle or a crescent moon. The sickle-shaped red blood cells can bind together, restricting blood flow and resulting in pain and other complications. Sickle cell disease is a genetic disease, meaning a child would inherit the disease if both parents carried the faulty gene. CAUSES OF SICKLE CELL DISEASE:Sickle cell disease is caused by a mutation in the gene that tells the body how to make haemoglobin—the protein in red blood cells that carries is inherited, not both parents carry the sickle cell trait, there is a 25% chance their child will be born with the SYMPTOMS:Symptoms can vary, but common signs include:Episodes of severe pain, called sickle cell crisesFatigue and weakness due to anaemiaSwelling in hands and feetFrequent infectionsDelayed growth in childrenVision problems due to blocked blood vessels in the eyesSymptoms often begin in early childhood, and regular medical care is essential for managing the EARLY DETECTION IS IMPORTANT:A simple blood test for early diagnosis will enable doctors to start treatment and prevent the consequences of ill health. In India, the government has set up several programs for universal testing and screening, especially in tribal and rural areas where the disease is more IN TREATMENT:Although there is no universal cure yet, treatment options continue to improve:Hydroxyurea is a drug that decreases both pain episodes and the incidence of blood transfusion is required to treat severe anaemia and to prevent stroke in marrow and stem cell transplants are a potential cure, although limited availability and cost significantly restrict their therapy, yet to be proven as an effective treatment option, is underway and is producing remarkable outcomes. Hopefully, gene therapy will provide long-term Sickle Cell Day 2025 reminds us all that awareness, testing and equal opportunity to care can make a difference. More knowledge about sickle cell disease and advances in care means that people can manage the disease more effectively, improving the length and quality of life for those affected. Governments, doctors and communities must engage and work collaboratively to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against this lifelong condition.
Hans India
10 hours ago
- Health
- Hans India
5.72 crore people screened for Sickle Cell Disease: Centre
With the screening of 5.72 crore people, India is stepping closer to a sickle cell-free future, said the Union Ministry of Health on Thursday on Sickle Cell Day. World Sickle Cell Day is observed on June 19 to raise awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD), a genetic blood disorder. Sickle Cell Disease is a chronic, single-gene disorder that causes a debilitating systemic syndrome characterised by chronic anaemia, acute painful episodes, organ infarction, and chronic organ damage, significantly reducing life expectancy. The genetic blood disorder affects the entire life of the patient, as it leads to various severe health complications. "This World Sickle Cell Day, India is stepping closer to a sickle cell-free future!" the Ministry said in a post on the social media platform X. The disease is particularly prevalent in India, especially among the tribal population, though it also affects non-tribals. As per the government data, India has the largest tribal population density globally, with 8.6 per cent of the population, or 67.8 million people, identified as tribal according to the 2011 Census. To address the burden, the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Madhya Pradesh on July 1, 2023. The mission aims to eliminate sickle cell disease as a public health problem in India before 2047. The Ministry noted that "as of June 3, 2025, a total of 5.72 crore people have been screened for Sickle Cell Disease, achieving over 75 per cent of the three-year target". Notably, more than 2.65 crore screenings were conducted in just one year since April 2024. States have issued 2.50 crore sickle cell status cards, helping to identify 1.98 lakh diseased patients and 14 lakh individuals with the sickle cell trait. All diagnosed patients are currently receiving appropriate treatment, the Ministry said. Union Minister of Health J.P. Nadda stated that the Sickle Cell Day raises awareness about the challenges faced by those living with the debilitating genetic disease. "This day offers a platform to educate communities, promote early diagnosis, and support ongoing research," he added on X, while stressing the need to break stigma and offer care to those affected. Further, the Ministry informed that frequent fever to recurring pain, swelling, or poor growth in children may be symptoms of complications in sickle cell anaemia. Other common symptoms include frequent infections, recurring episodes of jaundice, repeated pain in any parts of the body, swelling in hands, feet or joints, poor growth or weight gain, breathlessness or difficulty in breathing, enlarged spleen, blood in urine, sores or ulcers in the leg. "Don't delay, consult a doctor immediately. Early action can make all the difference," the Ministry added on X.
