Experts seek budget allocation for sickle cell ‘persons’
The experts in health sector have called on governments to allocate appreciable amount to modern care for those living with Sickle Cell Disorder.
This was made known at a lecture in Lagos, with the theme, ‘Sickle Cell Disorder Is Not A Death Sentence’, by Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria, to mark World Sickle Cell Day.
The Permanent Secretary in Ministry of Health, Olufunso Adebiyi, represented by Director of Port Health Services, Dr Morenike Kuku, said there have policies and interventions to address SCD.
He said, “I acknowledge SCFN has made an ally of government providing support and efforts by way of advocacy, awareness creation, provision of genetic counselling and formation of sickle cell clubs”
Speaking on 2023 priority, Adebiyi cited sickle cell prevention, management and control includes integration of sickle cell care and services into maternal and child health services in primary and secondary levels of care.
“Also, the institutionalisation of early identification of cases through newborn screening with the deployment of efficient and cost-effective care screening method…”
Dr. Sonny Kuku said during his childhood, SCD was seen as a death sentence in Nigeria, adding carriers have changed their mindsets on the non-communicable disorder.
He said carriers can now live for as long as they desire if they do all required of them.
Prof Ibironke Akinsete said considerable achievements in research and care have been recorded resulting in carriers living longer productive lives and reduced incidence of strokes.
According to her, “We hope with more research, a cure by Gene Therapy, which does not require transplantation, will be available. However, one area which has not received much attention in Africa is modern comprehensive care. I know this was the theme for 2017 World Sickle Cell Day. But unfortunately, this has got little attention”
