Has India Reached a Milestone in Sickle Cell Disease Screenings?
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Synopsis
India is on the brink of a significant health achievement as the government announces that 6 crore individuals have been screened for Sickle Cell Disease, inching closer to the ambitious target of 7 crore. This initiative under the National Sickle Cell Mission aims to eliminate this chronic disorder as a public health issue by 2047, focusing on tribal populations.
Key Takeaways
- 6 crore screenings have been conducted for Sickle Cell Disease in India.
- 2.15 lakh individuals have been diagnosed with the disease.
- 16.7 lakh were identified as carriers.
- The mission aims for universal screening by FY 2025-26.
- States are implementing health cards for those screened.
New Delhi, July 22 (NationPress) A staggering 6 crore individuals have undergone screening for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in India, nearing the goal of 7 crore under the National Sickle Cell Mission, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday.
Sickle Cell Disease is a chronic genetic disorder that leads to a debilitating systemic syndrome, featuring chronic anaemia, acute pain episodes, organ infarction, and enduring organ damage, which considerably decreases life expectancy.
This genetic blood disorder impacts the patient's entire life, resulting in various severe health complications.
Among those screened, 2.15 lakh individuals were diagnosed with the disease, and 16.7 lakh were identified as carriers, the Ministry revealed.
Moreover, 2.6 crore health cards have been issued by the respective states to the screened individuals.
States such as Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat have reported the highest incidences of sickle cell diagnoses.
States like Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Telangana, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand have achieved significant screening percentages compared to their targets, according to the Ministry.
This disease is notably prevalent in India, particularly among the tribal population, although it also affects non-tribals.
To combat this health burden, the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Madhya Pradesh on July 1, 2023.
The mission aims to eradicate sickle cell disease as a public health issue in India by 2047 through universal screening of 7 crore individuals aged 0-40 years in affected tribal regions by the fiscal year 2025-26.
Screening is performed using validated Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) kits that provide rapid, reliable, and confirmatory results. Additionally, a dedicated dashboard and a portal for sickle cell disease have been established by the government to compile screening data from all participating states.
The Ministry added, “Future priorities include intensifying screening efforts to fulfill the remaining targets and ensuring follow-up and counseling services for individuals diagnosed as diseased or carriers.”
Point of View
The screening of 6 crore individuals for Sickle Cell Disease is a commendable step towards addressing a significant public health issue. The commitment shown by the Indian government reflects an understanding of the health challenges faced by various communities, particularly the tribal populations. Continuous efforts and follow-up services will be essential to truly eliminate this disease and enhance the quality of life for affected individuals.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle Cell Disease is a hereditary blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells, leading to various health complications.
How many people were screened for Sickle Cell Disease in India?
As of now, 6 crore individuals have been screened for Sickle Cell Disease under the National Sickle Cell Mission.
What is the goal of the National Sickle Cell Mission?
The mission aims to screen 7 crore individuals aged 0-40 years in affected tribal areas and to eliminate sickle cell disease as a public health problem by 2047.
Which states reported the highest incidence of Sickle Cell Disease?
Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat reported the highest incidences of sickle cell diagnoses.
What measures are being taken for follow-up care?
The government plans to intensify screening efforts and ensure follow-up and counseling services for individuals diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease or as carriers.
