India’s efforts to eliminate sickle cell disease by 2047

Source: The post India’s efforts to eliminate sickle cell disease by 2047 has been created, based on the article “India’s sickle cell challenge” published in “The Hindu” on 12th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- Governance- Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health

Context: The article discusses India’s efforts to eliminate sickle cell disease by 2047 through the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission. It covers the challenges of treating the disease, including stigma and lack of access to medications, and suggests ways to improve detection and care.

For detailed information on Sickle Cell Disease read Article 1, Article 2

What is Sickle Cell Disease?

Sickle cell disease is a genetic condition that changes the shape of red blood cells. Healthy red blood cells are disc-shaped, but in this disease, they become sickle or crescent-shaped. This causes serious health issues, such as pain, organ damage, and reduced lifespan.

What is the Impact of Sickle Cell Disease in India?

1. India has the world’s second-largest burden of sickle cell disease, with over a million people affected.
2. The disease is concentrated in tribal belts in states like Odisha, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
3. Many affected people do not receive proper treatment, with only 18% getting consistent care.
4. Stigma, mistrust of public health systems, and reliance on traditional healers are key barriers to proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Steps Has the Government Taken?

1. In 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission to eliminate the disease by 2047.
2. The government began large-scale screening programs to identify patients.
3. Hydroxyurea, an essential medicine for sickle cell treatment, was added to the national essential medicines list, improving accessibility.

What Should be Done?

1. Reducing Stigma: Public awareness campaigns can help reduce stigma and encourage people to seek medical help. Examples like the polio and HIV campaigns can serve as models.
2. Increased Screening: Early detection through newborn screening can help. This is a low-cost strategy with high benefits, especially in areas where sickle cell disease is common.
3. Better Access to Medicines: Medicines should be made available at health centers close to patients, and adherence support should be provided.
4. Vaccinations: Ensuring all patients get proper vaccinations can improve their quality of life by reducing infections.
5. Improving Tribal Healthcare: Address unique challenges in tribal regions by improving trust and funding in healthcare systems.
6. Research and Philanthropy: More research is needed to understand the disease in India, and philanthropic efforts can help drive solutions.

Question for practice:

Examine the key challenges and government initiatives in addressing sickle cell disease in India.