Over 150,000 Nigerian children are born each year with the sickle cell gene, largely due to widespread ignorance and misdiagnosis, according to the Federal Government and health experts.
The alarming statistic was revealed as Nigeria joined the rest of the world on Thursday to commemorate World Sickle Cell Day, observed annually on June 19 to raise awareness about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and promote better management practices.
In a statement from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Mr. Alaba Balogun, noted that 25% of Nigerian adults are carriers of the sickle cell gene.
He added that SCD accounts for approximately 8% of total infant mortality in the country, with around 150,000 new cases reported annually.
“Survivors often face chronic complications such as organ damage, stroke, and vulnerability to infections.
“The psychosocial and economic burden is immense, affecting education, employment, mental health, and social inclusion,” Balogun stated.
Experts warned that poor public awareness and delayed diagnosis continue to worsen the disease’s impact. Sickle Cell Disease, a hereditary blood disorder, affects nearly 100 million people globally, with sub-Saharan Africa carrying the highest burden.
The disease remains the most prevalent genetic condition in the WHO African Region and is responsible for over 50% of deaths in individuals with the most severe form (Hb SS).
The call for improved screening, early diagnosis, public education, and access to healthcare services dominated discussions as Nigeria marked the global health awareness day.
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