World Sickle Cell Awareness Day 2024

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is observed annually on June 19th to raise awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD) and its impact on individuals worldwide. It serves as a platform to educate the public and advocate for better treatment and care for the affected individuals.

Sickle cell disease is a genetic condition that affects the shape and functions of red blood cells. In individuals with SCD, the hemoglobin forms abnormal, rigid, and sickle-shaped cells instead of the flexible, round shape of normal red blood cells. These sickle cells can clump together and block blood flow, leading to pain, organ damage, and other serious health complications.

This disease primarily affects people of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian ancestry. It is estimated that around 300,000 babies are born with sickle cell disease globally each year, with a significant burden in sub-Saharan Africa, India, and other parts of the world where malaria is prevalent.

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day aims to raise awareness on sickle cell disease and its implications. Awareness campaigns help educate communities about the disease, its symptoms, and the importance of early detection and management.  People with sickle cell disease often face stigma and discrimination due to misconceptions about the disease. Campaigns for awareness serve to debunk stereotypes, lessen stigma, and create a more welcoming and encouraging community.

Access to comprehensive care and treatment is crucial for individuals living with sickle cell disease. Advocacy efforts on World Sickle Cell Awareness Day emphasize the need for improved healthcare services, including affordable medications, specialized clinics, and support networks. Living with sickle cell disease can be challenging for patients and their families due to chronic pain, frequent hospitalizations, and other complications. World Sickle Cell Awareness Day provides an opportunity to show support, solidarity, and empathy towards those affected by the disease.

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day plays a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for people with sickle cell disease and fostering a brighter future through improved healthcare, scientific discoveries, and community support by bringing attention to the condition and pushing for better care.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdah Md Akim

Department of Biomedical Sciences

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia

Date of Input: 17/07/2024 | Updated: 01/08/2024 | nadia_rahman