Sickle Cell Anaemia (Health, Diseases and Biotechnology)
Sickle Cell Anaemia (Health, Diseases and Biotechnology)
Why In News:
The government reaffirmed its commitment to the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, which aims to eliminate Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) as a public health problem by 2047.
19 June, is observed as International Sickle Cell Day, linked to the Tribal Health Mission.
What is Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?
Disease Type: Hereditary (autosomal recessive) blood disorder caused by a mutation in the haemoglobin gene.
Mechanism: Red blood cells become rigid and sickle-shaped, blocking blood flow, causing severe anaemia and organ damage.
Inheritance Pattern: Autosomal recessive - child needs two defective haemoglobin gene copies to manifest the disease.
Prevalence in India: High among tribal communities in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Gujarat.
National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission
Launched: 2023, under the National Health Mission (NHM).
Target: Eliminate SCD as a public health problem by 2047.
Focus Areas:
Universal screening, genetic counselling, treatment access, and inclusive healthcare awareness.
Ministerial Oversight: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare jointly with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.