Is There an Urgent Call for New Treatments for Sickle Cell Disease?
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Synopsis
A senior ICMR scientist emphasizes the urgent need for new sickle cell disease treatments, highlighting the limitations of hydroxyurea. With a recent government initiative offering substantial funding for drug development, the race for innovative therapies is on. Will new breakthroughs transform the lives of patients suffering from this genetic disorder?
Key Takeaways
- Hydroxyurea is the only effective treatment available, but not for all patients.
- The government has allocated Rs 10 crore to support the development of new drugs.
- Sickle cell disease predominantly affects tribal populations in India.
- There is ongoing research for alternative therapies, including gene therapy.
- Improved treatment options could significantly enhance patients' lives.
New Delhi, June 24 (NationPress) The quest for new medications for individuals suffering from sickle cell disease is of utmost importance, stated a leading scientist from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
In an interview with IANS, Dr. Manisha Madkaikar, Director of the ICMR- Centre for Research Management and Control of Haemoglobinopathies (CRHCM) in Nagpur, revealed that among numerous treatments, only hydroxyurea has proven effective.
Hydroxyurea is also part of the National Health Mission's list of essential medications.
Nonetheless, this drug proves ineffective for many patients, creating a pressing need to discover more effective treatments.
“Sickle cell disease has been known to us for decades, yet only hydroxyurea has consistently demonstrated its efficacy. It significantly enhances the quality of life and reduces complications for patients,” stated Madkaikar.
“However, some individuals do not respond to hydroxyurea. Additionally, patients must undergo lifelong treatment with this drug, highlighting the urgent need for improved therapies,” she added.
This statement comes after the government recently announced a funding of Rs 10 crore to foster the development of a new medication for sickle cell disease treatment.
The tribal affairs ministry, in partnership with AIIMS-Delhi, will host a competition for drug development. The most promising proposal will receive funding up to Rs 10 crore, as declared by Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Durgadas Uikey, during an event commemorating World Sickle Cell Day in the national capital.
Uikey also introduced the Bhagwan Birsa Munda Prize to recognize outstanding efforts in developing new treatments.
Sickle cell disease is a hereditary disorder predominantly found in regions with significant tribal populations. Approximately one in 86 births among Scheduled Tribes experience this condition, which impairs hemoglobin in red blood cells, leading to serious health consequences.
Madkaikar emphasized that research is ongoing beyond just bone marrow transplants and gene therapies, which, while available abroad, are currently inaccessible in India.
“We lack any other medication that has shown potential similar to hydroxyurea. There is a significant opportunity and necessity to discover treatments that could revolutionize the lives of those affected by sickle cell disease,” she concluded.
Point of View
The need for innovative treatments for sickle cell disease cannot be overstated. The ICMR's efforts and the government's funding initiative mark a crucial step towards addressing this genetic disorder that predominantly affects tribal communities. As research progresses, it is vital to ensure equitable access to effective treatments for all patients in need.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sickle cell disease?
Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that affects hemoglobin in red blood cells, leading to various health complications.
Why is there a need for new drugs for sickle cell disease?
Current treatments like hydroxyurea are not effective for all patients, necessitating the search for new and improved therapies.
What recent initiatives have been announced to support sickle cell disease treatment?
The government has announced a funding of Rs 10 crore for developing new drugs to treat sickle cell disease.
How prevalent is sickle cell disease in India?
Sickle cell disease is particularly common in areas with high tribal populations, affecting approximately one in 86 births among these communities.
What are the current treatment options for sickle cell disease?
Currently, hydroxyurea is the most effective treatment available, although options like bone marrow transplantation and gene therapy are being researched.
