Abuja:Stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to provide free genotype testing in public health facilities nationwide to address the increasing burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, traditional leaders and other stakeholders made this call in Abuja during the public presentation of the book “Understanding Sickle Cell Disease A Comprehensive Guide for All,” authored by Adeshetu Odiba, a 54-year-old sickle cell survivor and civil servant.
Odiba emphasized that Nigeria holds the highest global burden of sickle cell cases, yet public policies and funding for the condition fall behind other diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. She called on the government to mandate free genotype screening, expand the capacity of hospital hematology departments, equip blood banks, and employ more specialized personnel to alleviate the pressure on affected families.
Efforts are underway to integrate sickle cell education into Nigeria’s school curriculum, from basic education to university level, to combat ignorance about genotype compatibility. Odiba is working with the National Assembly to ensure young Nigerians are informed about genotype compatibility before marriage, warning that marrying someone with an incompatible genotype can lead to significant emotional and financial strain.
Pastor Samuel Odiba, the author‚¬„¢s husband, highlighted prevention as the most effective cure. He urged faith-based organizations to enforce mandatory pre-marital genotype verification. Dr. Jumai Ahmadu of the Federal Capital Territory Administration emphasized the need for government intervention to provide free testing for low-income populations.
Hajia Hauwa Adamu, President of the Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers Association, pledged to support educational efforts to dispel myths and reduce stigma associated with sickle cell disease, emphasizing the importance of love, knowledge, and care in managing the condition.