Nigeria Faces Highest Global Sickle Cell Disease Burden

At a CESRTA meeting in Abuja, Prof. Akinola Fawehinmi highlighted that Nigeria bears the highest global burden of sickle cell disease (SCD).

He emphasized the urgent health challenges posed by SCD, particularly its impact on children, who endure lifelong pain and face disrupted education and reduced livelihood prospects due to poor access to quality healthcare. Prof.

Obiag Nnodu discussed the need for a nationwide pact program aimed at improving SCD management and healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and peri-urban communities. The project aims to reach 300 patients across six health facilities in the FCT, focusing on standard care delivery and addressing stigma that discourages mothers from seeking timely care for their newborns.

Prof. Imelda Bate noted the financial burden on families and the importance of early screening and diagnosis for better quality of life.

Dr. Aderonk Akand from the FCT Primary Healthcare Board emphasized the need for urgent coordination and sustained interventions across various stakeholders.