Medical advocates and traditional leaders in Nigeria have called on the federal government to make genotype testing free across public health facilities to combat the rising burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). This appeal was made during the public presentation of a book, "Understanding Sickle Cell Disease: A Comprehensive Guide for All," authored by Mrs. Adeshetu Musa P. Odiba, a sickle cell survivor. The event, themed "Awareness Today, Healthier Tomorrow," was attended by government officials, traditional leaders, and health advocates in Abuja.
Nigeria carries the highest burden of sickle cell cases globally, yet public policy attention and health funding for the condition lag behind other diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. Mrs. Odiba lamented the disparity, urging the government to mandate free genotype screening, expand hospital hematology departments, equip blood banks, and deploy more specialized personnel. She emphasized that millions of Nigerians are suffering from sickle cell disease and stressed the need for government intervention.
The author of the book, Mrs. Odiba, a 54-year-old sickle cell survivor and civil servant, highlighted the need for government support to ease the burden on affected families. She suggested that the government should make genotype testing completely free, expand laboratory facilities and blood banks, and employ more hematologists. Mrs. Odiba also assured that efforts are underway to integrate sickle cell education into Nigeria's school curriculum from basic education up to the university level.
Dr. Jumai Ahmadu of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) noted that while intending couples should take personal responsibility for genotype testing, government intervention is vital for low-income populations. She suggested that the government should step in and make provision for free genotype testing for vulnerable populations. Dr. Ahmadu emphasized that genotype testing is mandatory for intending couples, but government support is necessary to ensure accessibility.
The President of the Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers Association, Hajia Hauwa Ibrahim Adamu, pledged the support of royal mothers across the 17 kingdoms of the FCT to demystify the disease and end social stigma. She emphasized the need for collective action to raise awareness about sickle cell disease and promote genotype compatibility before entering relationships.
Mrs. Odiba is collaborating with the National Assembly through the Senate Committee Chairman on Education to ensure that young Nigerians are educated early on genotype compatibility. The integration of sickle cell education into the school curriculum aims to promote awareness and prevent the spread of the disease. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of millions of Nigerians affected by sickle cell disease.
The stakeholders' call for government intervention highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the burden of sickle cell disease in Nigeria. With the highest number of sickle cell cases globally, Nigeria must prioritize public health initiatives to combat the disease. The implementation of free genotype testing and integration of sickle cell education into the curriculum are crucial steps towards reducing the burden of sickle cell disease and promoting a healthier future for Nigerians.
Key points
- Nigerian government urged to make genotype testing free across public health facilities to combat rising burden of Sickle Cell Disease.
- Stakeholders call for integration of sickle cell education into Nigeria's school curriculum to promote awareness and prevent spread of disease.
- Nigeria carries highest burden of sickle cell cases globally, yet public policy attention and health funding lag behind other diseases.
