On World Sickle Cell Day, experts are highlighting that the fight against sickle cell disease depends on more than treatment alone- it requires early diagnosis, wider screening, and long-term follow-up care. In India, the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission has already screened millions of people, but experts say the next phase must focus on making diagnostics, genetic counseling and preventive monitoring more accessible across high-burden regions.
(Padma Shri) Dr Harsh Mahajan, Mentor, FICCI Health and Founder of Mahajan Imaging & Labs, said sickle cell disease is far more than a blood disorder. “On the occasion of World Sickle Cell Day, one must keep in mind that sickle cell disease is not just a disease of the blood; it is a chronic illness that has the potential to silently cause organ damage to the brain, lungs, bones, kidneys and liver, among others. Since the inherited sickle cell disease starts showing its symptoms from childhood, diagnosis at an early stage and regular follow-ups are essential for better results,” he said.