Revelations from stakeholders have shown that more Nigerian children are increasingly becoming victims of sickle cell disease (SCD) due to misdiagnosis and ignorance.
Citing studies and hospital records, the experts asserted that over 150,000 children are born annually with the disease.
On its part, the federal government said that over 150,000 Nigerian children are born with the gene annually
In a statement issued to mark the World Sickle Day, the deputy director of Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Mr Alaba Balogun, said “currently, 25% of
Nigerian adults carry the sickle cell gene, and the country records approximately 150,000 infants annually due to SCD representing around 8% of total infant mortality. Survivors often suffer chronic complications, including end organ damage, stroke and increased susceptibility to infections. The psychosocial and economic burden is immense, impacting education, employment, mental health and social inclusion.”
Sickle Cell Disease is a severe, inherited blood disorder affecting nearly 100 million people globally, with the highest burden found in sub-Saharan Africa. It accounts for over 50% of deaths among individuals with the most severe form (Hb SS) and remains the most prevalent genetic condition in the WHO African Region. In Nigeria, it contributes significantly to both childhood and adult mortality.
The disclosures came on Thursday as Nigeria joined the global community to mark World Sickle Cell Day.
World Sickle Cell Day is observed annually on June 19 to raise awareness about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and promote the importance of its management.
The disclosures came from the industry players and top officials of the Federal Ministry of Health in separate interviews with LEADERSHIP Weekend, as Nigeria joined the global community on Thursday to mark World Sickle Cell Day.
The experts also disclosed that 25 per cent of Nigerian adults carry the sickle cell gene.
World Sickle Cell Day is observed annually on June 19 to raise awareness about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and its management.
(Leadership)
