Gujarat’s sickle cell model leads national expansion to combat disease

On World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, Dr Yazdi Italia, a Padma Shri awardee and pioneer of the Sickle Cell Control Programme, highlighted significant progress in India’s battle against Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and called for increased awareness, equitable healthcare access, and wider adoption of preventive technologies.

SCD, a common hereditary blood disorder, is especially prevalent among tribal communities in India. Historically, many patients have faced delayed diagnosis, insufficient specialised care, and lack of awareness, resulting in avoidable suffering and serious complications, according to a Gujarat Chief Minister’s Office release.