World Sickle Cell Awareness Day 2025: Madhya Pradesh’s Model in Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination

What is Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?

Sickle cell disease is a serious, genetic blood disorder in which red blood cells, instead of being round, become sickle-shaped. This disrupts the supply of oxygen to the body’s organs, causing patients to suffer lifelong from fatigue, pain, fever, and infections. The disease is more prevalent in India’s tribal regions such as Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Odisha.

Key Facts: Sickle Cell Awareness and Action in Madhya Pradesh

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is observed every year on June 19 to increase awareness and promote early screening for this disease.

Madhya Pradesh has conducted India’s largest sickle cell screening, covering 10.6 million people under the age of 40.

Major Findings:

28,922 confirmed sickle cell patients

202,000 carriers (who can pass the disease to the next generation)

Over 8 million genetic counselling cards distributed

Special Focus:

Screening, genetic counselling, and awareness in 33 highly affected districts

State-level recognition for panchayats with 100% screening

Government Initiatives:

Launch of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (NSCAM) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2023, with the aim to eliminate the disease from the country by 2047

Free provision of hydroxyurea, folic acid, and blood transfusion for patients

Advice for “medical horoscope matching” before marriage to prevent the disease from passing to the next generation

Screening of over 46,000 pregnant women to protect newborns from the disease

Exam-Relevant Facts

Sickle cell is a genetic disease: If both parents are carriers, the likelihood of the child having the disease increases.

Carriers: 202,000 in Madhya Pradesh – if two carriers marry, the risk of the child having the disease increases significantly.

Screening coverage: Over 10.6 million people screened in Madhya Pradesh alone, exceeding national targets.

National Mission: Under NSCAM, the goal is to screen 70 million people aged 0–40 years in 278 districts across 17 states by 2027.

Treatment: The only permanent cure is bone marrow transplant; supportive care includes medication and blood transfusion.

Mortality rate: Without proper treatment, 20% of affected children may die before age two, and 30% may not survive to adulthood.

Community focus: Due to the tradition of marriage within tribal and closed communities, the disease spreads rapidly.

Prevention and Recommendations

Pre-marital screening: Mandatory in several districts; “Match cards before matching horoscopes” campaign.

Genetic counselling: Over 8 million cards distributed, enabling people to know their carrier status.

Lifestyle advice:

Drink plenty of water

Maintain a balanced diet

Avoid extreme cold and strenuous exercise

Get timely vaccinations

Special facilities:

Dedicated sickle cell centres in Bhopal, Indore, and Rewa

“Sickle Cell Mitra” campaign to raise awareness among youth

Why is this important for your exam preparation?

Prelims:

Sickle cell disease is frequently asked in Science & Technology and Health sections.

Remember facts like screening numbers, affected states, and mission targets.

Mains:

Use the example of sickle cell in answers on government health missions, tribal welfare, and preventive healthcare.

Mention the Madhya Pradesh model for public health innovation, genetic counselling, and community engagement.

Essay/Interview:

Sickle cell elimination efforts exemplify inclusive healthcare, preventive strategies, and the integration of social customs with medical advice.

Shows how India is combating genetic diseases through awareness and community participation.

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