By Joy Odor
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing the burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in the country.
In a statement issued by Alaba Balogun, Deputy Director, Information & Public Relations informed that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare this comes as the global health community commemorates World Sickle Cell Day 2025 with the theme “Transforming Care and Strengthening Communities.”
The statement informed that the Burden of Sickle Cell Disease in Nigeria:*
– *Prevalence:* SCD affects a significant portion of the population, with 25% of Nigerian adults carrying the sickle cell gene.
– *Mortality:* The disease contributes to high infant mortality rates, with approximately 150,000 infant deaths annually.
– *Impact:* SCD survivors often suffer from chronic complications, including end-organ damage, stroke, and increased susceptibility to infections.
According to the statement, the Government Initiatives are:-
– *Newborn Screening:* The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has launched a program to train primary healthcare workers to implement universal newborn screening for SCD.
– *Centres of Excellence:* Six centres of excellence have been established to serve as regional hubs for SCD screening and management.
– *National Guidelines:* The government has developed a national desk guide and standard operating procedures for SCD screening and management.
– *Integration with Primary Healthcare:* SCD services are being integrated into primary healthcare, alongside other priority non-communicable diseases.
*Future Plans:*
– *Expanding Care:* The government plans to revitalize and upgrade the six SCD centres to improve access to comprehensive care.
– *Point-of-Care Screening:* Validated point-of-care screening technologies will be introduced for newborns and older age groups.
– *Research and Partnerships:* The government will enhance research, monitoring, and evaluation systems and partners with development partners, civil society, and the private sector to strengthen surveillance and support services.
The commemoration of World Sickle Cell Day 2025 serves as a reminder of the need for collective action to address this significant public health challenge in Nigeria.
