By Sakina Ahmed
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) affects millions of Nigerians, yet many families remain unaware of the condition’s severity and the necessary care it requires.
In an exclusive interview with a
Consultant haematologist, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital Dr. Aisha Mohammed Abba, stressed the pressing need for comprehensive care and awareness in Nigeria.
“Sickle cell disease is not just a medical condition; it profoundly impacts the lives of individuals and their families,” Dr. Abba stated. “Patients endure chronic pain, frequent infections, and severe complications, which can lead to lifelong disabilities or even death if not managed properly.”
Sickle cell disease is caused by a mutation in the gene responsible for producing hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in the blood. This leads to the formation of crescent-shaped red blood cells that can block blood flow, causing extreme pain and organ damage. The symptoms often manifest early in life, with swelling in the hands and feet and chronic anemia.
Dr. Abba emphasized the importance of early diagnosis, stating, “Newborn screening is crucial. It allows for prompt initiation of preventive care, such as antibiotics and vaccinations, which can significantly reduce mortality rates.”
Despite the establishment of newborn screening programs in some areas, many patients remain undiagnosed. “In Nigeria, especially in the Northeast, access to specialized centers is limited, and many families cannot afford the costs of diagnosis and treatment,” Dr. Abba lamented.
The financial burden of sickle cell management is particularly acute in regions affected by poverty and insurgency. “In these areas, the cost of medications and treatments can be overwhelming,” Dr. Abba explained. “Many families are forced to choose between basic needs and healthcare.”
Moreover, the stigma surrounding sickle cell disease further complicates the situation. “Patients often face discrimination, which prevents them from seeking the care they need,” Dr. Abba noted. “This social stigma must be addressed through community education and support.”
To combat these challenges, Dr. Abba advocates for several critical measures. “We need to expand newborn screening programs across the country and establish comprehensive sickle cell clinics,” she urged. “Training healthcare workers at all levels is essential for effective management.”
Additionally, Dr. Abba called for increased research and data collection to better understand the impact of sickle cell disease in Nigerian communities. “We must promote community support initiatives to reduce stigma and encourage early care-seeking behaviors,” she said.
One promising example of progress is the Borno State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, which has registered numerous sickle cell patients, improving outcomes for many families. “This initiative shows that with the right support, we can make a difference,” Dr. Abba said.
As the world marks the annual Sickle Cell Awareness Day on June 19th, the need for government action is more urgent than ever. “We must push for universal health coverage that includes sickle cell disease management,” Dr. Abba stressed. “If we can achieve this, we can ensure that every patient receives the care they deserve.”
The call to action is clear: it is time for the federal government to prioritize sickle cell care, ensuring that no Nigerian suffers in silence due to a lack of awareness or access to treatment.
Dr. Abba concluded, “Every life matters. We must work together to ensure that those living with sickle cell disease have the support and care they need to thrive.”
