2025 World Day of Falciform cells: Nigeria has reiterated the commitment to transform, care, strengthening of communities

2025 World Day of Falciform cells: Nigeria has reiterated the commitment to transform, care, strengthening of communities

Abuja (basic reporter) The Government of Nigeria through the Ministry of Health and Social Wellness has reiterated its commitment to reduce the burden of the scd of falciform cells) through greater awareness, prevention, early diagnosis and quality treatments. This is coming when the global health community commemorates the World Day of Falcili cells 2025 on Thursday 19 June 2025, under the theme “transforming the treatments and strengthening the communities”

This was contained in a declaration issued on Thursday by the deputy director of information and public relations of the Ministry of Tye, Alaba Balogun.

Basic journalists report that falciform cell disease is a severe and hereditary blood disorder that affects almost 100 million people globally, with the highest burden in sub-Saharan Africa. It represents over 50% of the deaths between individuals with the most serious form (HB SS) and remains the most widespread genetic condition in the African region of WHO. In Nigeria, it contributes significantly to child and adult mortality.

Currently, 25% of Nigerian adults bring the falciform cells gene and the country records about 150,000 childhood deaths every year due to the SCD which represents about 8% of total childhood mortality. Survivors often undergo chronic complications, including damage to the final organ, stroke and greater susceptibility to infections. The psychosocial and economic burden is immense: to influence education, employment, mental health and social inclusion.

Despite these challenges, SCD remains preventable and manageable. However, systemic gaps, such as a limited public awareness, inadequate screening and the lack of trained personnel- continue to hinder progress. Tackling the SCD is the key to achieving sustainable development objectives (SDG) 1 (no poverty), 3 (good health and well -being) and 4 (quality education).

National milestones and strategic interventions:

In response, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Wellness has launched several targeted initiatives, including:

Training of primary health care workers (PHC) to implement the screening of the universal newborn for SCD, currently underway in the geopolitical area of ​​the South -ovest.

Development of a national guide for the desk and sop for the standardization of new and childhood screening procedures across the country.

Establishment of six centers of excellence, one in each geopolitical area, equipped with diagnostic tools, for example HPLC and trained staff to serve as regional hubs for screening and SCD management.

Revision of the national guidelines for the prevention and control of SCD, incorporating the latest recommendations and progress of the OPER with care.

Integration of SCD services in basic health care, together with other non -transmissible priority diseases (NCD).

Development of the Nigerian package of non-transmissible essential interventions (NCD) (Nigeria-Pen), adapted by the WHO guidelines, with provisions for genetic advice; Screening, diagnosis and reference.

Establishment of a technical committee of the multi-sectoral action plan (MSAP) to coordinate national efforts between ministries and agencies.

National defense campaigns, with constant awareness of genotype tests and genetic advice.

Pilot implementation of peel strategies, focusing on SCD, type 1 diabetes and rheumatic heart disease in collaboration with the WHO and Clinton Health Access Initiative,

Looking to the future, the government undertakes to expand and institutionalize care for individual life with SCD through:

– revitalize and update the six SCD centers to improve access to complete care.

-InDuCecuco the validated screening technologies -valued for infants and the most advanced age groups at all levels of health care.

– reduction of the use of hydroxyurea, a proven therapy to reduce complications and improve the quality of life.

– Integration of SCD services in maternal and childhood health programs, in particular to primary and secondary assistance levels.

– The involvement of the stress community and mass mobilization to increase awareness and support early screening.

-The improvement of research, monitoring and evaluation systems for effective implementation of the program

-Partner with development partners, civil society and the private sector to strengthen surveillance and support services for individuals and affected families.

Host the 5th global scid congress

In a great recognition of Nigeria’s leadership in facing the SCD, the country successfully hosted the 5th global congress of falciform cells in Abuja. The event, organized in collaboration with the Sickle Cell Support Society of Nigeria (SCSSN), the Global SCD coalition and, the global network of falciform cells; They have summoned researchers, doctors, politicians and supporters of strategies to reduce the global burden of SCD under the theme “do not leave anyone behind”.

An invitation to national action

Falciform cell disease is not just a medical question,: it is a social challenge that requires collective responsibility. Giving priority to genotype tests, supporting affected people and, supporting improved services, we can reduce the incidence of new cases and improve results for those who live with the disease.

Together, we transform care, strong communities and build a future in which no child arises from a preventable condition.