Yesterday, the Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria (SCFN) announced a series of activities in commemoration of World Sickle Cell Day. The festivities commenced on June 1 with an engaging quiz that brought together 26 Senior Secondary School pupils from Lagos State, aimed at raising awareness about sickle cell disorder.
Among the planned events is a vibrant red umbrella charity walk, a blood donation drive, and a captivating public lecture entitled "Sickle Cell Disorder is not a death sentence," which serves as the grand finale of the celebration.
During a press briefing, representing the esteemed Chairman, Tunde Afolabi, the Founder and past Chairman, Prof. Olu Akinyanju, emphasized that Nigeria bears the highest burden of sickle cell disorder globally. Astonishingly, not only do over 40 million Nigerians carry the sickle cell gene, but approximately 150,000 babies are born each year with this condition, and sadly, two-thirds of them do not live to celebrate their fifth birthday.
Highlighting a ray of hope, Afolabi disclosed the existence of a remarkable Bone Marrow Transplant Centre, where individuals from Nigeria can seek a potential cure. This pioneering facility operates in collaboration with the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and the Vanderbilt University Medical Centre in Nashville, United States. The government and various philanthropic individuals generously provide support for this remarkable initiative.
Dr. Annette Akinsete, the National Director of the foundation, emphasized that sickle cell disease does not discriminate based on age when it comes to mortality. She further asserted that individuals living with sickle cell disorder can lead fulfilling lives and make valuable contributions to their communities, provided they receive proper and comprehensive management.
In summary, the Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria's World Sickle Cell Day activities encompassed an engaging quiz, a red umbrella charity walk, a blood donation drive, and an enlightening public lecture, which collectively shed light on the realities of sickle cell disorder. Nigeria's alarmingly high burden of this condition underscores the urgent need for increased awareness, while the existence of the Bone Marrow Transplant Centre offers hope for potential cures. Through effective management, individuals with sickle cell disease can defy limitations and thrive in society.
SOURCE: thenationonlineng