Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), commonly known as sickle cell anemia, is one of the most common inherited blood disorders in India. It occurs when an individual inherits an abnormal haemoglobin gene from both parents. Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. In people with SCD, the red blood cells become sickle or crescent-shaped instead of being round and flexible. These abnormal cells can block blood flow, leading to severe pain, anaemia, infections, and damage to vital organs.
India carries a significant share of the global burden of sickle cell anaemia with millions of people either affected by SCD or carrying the sickle cell trait. A report published in The Lancet Haematology says that India has an estimated 1 to 1.4 million people living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Additionally, the country is home to approximately 30 million sickle cell carriers (Sickle Cell Trait). The condition is especially common in certain tribal and rural populations, making it a major public health concern.