What is the Latest on Sickle Cell Anaemia Screening in India?
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Synopsis
In a significant health initiative, Union Health Minister JP Nadda revealed in Parliament that over 6 crore people have been screened for sickle cell anaemia, identifying over 2.16 lakh cases. With a mission to eradicate the disease by 2047, India is focusing on universal screening and genetic counseling to improve public health.
Key Takeaways
- Over 6 crore individuals screened for sickle cell anaemia.
- 2.16 lakh cases identified as diseased.
- Odisha has the highest number of cases.
- National mission aims to eliminate sickle cell disease by 2047.
- Genetic counseling ID cards distributed to screenees.
New Delhi, Aug 1 (NationPress) Over 6 crore individuals have undergone screenings for sickle cell anaemia across the nation, with 2.16 lakh identified as affected, as reported by Union Health Minister JP Nadda in Parliament on Friday.
In response to a Lok Sabha inquiry, Nadda revealed that the screenings took place in 17 states.
According to data available until July 28, a total of 6,04,50,683 individuals in these states, predominantly tribal areas, have been screened, among which 2,16,118 have been confirmed as diseased.
Moreover, over 16.7 lakh of those diagnosed are carriers of the condition.
Notably, Odisha leads the states with sickle cell disease, recording 96,484 cases on the sickle cell portal. This is followed by Madhya Pradesh (30,580 cases), Gujarat (28,150), Maharashtra (23,218), and Chhattisgarh (26,104).
Other states with significant case numbers include Rajasthan (2,729), Andhra Pradesh (2,159), and Jharkhand (2,154).
In contrast, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttarakhand showed lower case counts, reporting 285, 32, 8, and 6 cases respectively.
As of July 28, 2,62,67,997 genetic counselling ID cards have been issued nationwide. These cards, distributed post-screening, indicate whether an individual is normal, a carrier (Sickle Cell Trait), or has Sickle Cell Disease.
Nadda emphasized that screenings for sickle cell are available at all healthcare facilities, from district hospitals to Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) level. Hydroxyurea, the standard therapy for sickle cell disease, is now part of the National Health Mission’s (NHM) essential drugs list for sub-health centres.
Sickle Cell Disease is a chronic, single-gene disorder leading to debilitating systemic issues, characterized by chronic anaemia, painful episodes, organ infarction, and chronic organ damage, which severely impacts life expectancy.
This genetic blood disorder significantly affects patients’ lives, causing various serious health complications.
To combat the disease, the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM) was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2023.
The mission aims to eradicate sickle cell disease as a public health concern in India before 2047 by screening 7 crore individuals aged 0-40 years in affected tribal regions by the fiscal year 2025-26.
Point of View
The commitment to addressing sickle cell anaemia showcases a proactive approach in public health policy. The extensive screening efforts reflect a focus on preventive healthcare, which is essential for improving the overall health landscape in India. The emphasis on genetic counseling and treatment accessibility is commendable, setting a precedent for future health initiatives.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sickle cell anaemia?
Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by the production of abnormal hemoglobin, leading to sickle-shaped red blood cells that can cause various health complications.
How many people have been screened for sickle cell anaemia in India?
Over 6 crore individuals have been screened for sickle cell anaemia in India as of July 28.
What is the goal of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission?
The mission aims to eliminate sickle cell disease as a public health problem in India by 2047, with a focus on universal screening and genetic counseling.
Which states have the highest cases of sickle cell disease?
Odisha has the highest reported cases, followed by Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh.
What treatments are available for sickle cell disease?
Hydroxyurea is a standard therapy included in the National Health Mission’s essential drug list for managing sickle cell disease.
