National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission
Context:
Last year the Indian Prime Minister launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission from Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh, aiming to eradicate the disease by 2047.
More on News:
- India carries the world’s second-largest burden of sickle cell disease.
- This initiative highlights India’s commitment to tackling a condition that affects over a million people, particularly concentrated in the tribal regions of Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
Sickle cell disease is caused by a genetic mutation that leads to the production of abnormally shaped red blood cells. These sickle-shaped cells can cause severe health complications, including anaemia, recurrent infections, pain, swelling, and damage to vital organs. The lifespan of affected individuals is significantly shortened, often to about 40 years, and their quality of life is severely impacted. Moreover, patients face social stigma, being ostracised or labelled as “genetically inferior” in some communities. This stigma can lead to diminished marital and social prospects, with some attributing the condition to “black magic” or considering it a “curse.
Key Highlights:
- The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Program, introduced in the Union Budget 2023, aims to tackle the major health issues caused by sickle cell disease, especially within tribal populations.
- The mission is executed in a mission mode as part of National Health Mission (NHM), reflecting a structured and focused approach to tackling the disease.
- Under this,National Informatics Center has developed software: Web Application/portal ,Common API to migrate state existing data , Mobile Application Administrative Information.
- The mission has raised awareness of the disease, leading to nationwide screening programs and the inclusion of hydroxyurea in the essential medicines list.
- Estimates suggest that only 18% of individuals affected by sickle cell disease in India receive consistent treatment.
Major issues include:
- Diagnosis: Many avoid seeking help due to stigma, and traditional healers often misdiagnose the condition.
- Patients struggle with adherence due to the high cost of medicines, irregular supply, and long travel distances to healthcare facilities.
- Although hydroxyurea is effective for many patients, its availability is inconsistent. Medicines sometimes go out of stock, and patients often face long journeys to access treatment.
Opportunities for Progress:
- Reducing Stigma and Building Trust: Targeted media campaigns can help dispel myths and build trust in public health institutions.
- Drawing from past successes in combating polio and HIV, India can develop effective strategies to encourage early diagnosis and reduce the concealment of sickle cell trait status.
- Enhanced Newborn Screening: Increasing screening for newborns, especially in endemic areas, is a cost-effective strategy with a high potential impact.
- Improving Access to Medications and Support: Establishing interdisciplinary centres of excellence at the district or divisional level.
- Catch-Up Vaccination Programs: Implementing catch-up vaccination programs to ensure all patients receive necessary vaccines will be important for reducing infections and improving patient outcomes.
- Strengthening Tribal Health Services