Eradicating Sickle Cell Disease: Securing the Future of India's Tribal Communities

Eradicating Sickle Cell Disease: Securing the Future of India's Tribal Communities

In an effort to secure the future of India's tribal communities, the Prime Minister recently launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Eradication Mission (NSCAEM) with the goal of eliminating the disease by 2047. Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder commonly found among tribal populations, where red blood cells become distorted and take on a sickle-like shape.

SCD has two forms: the Sickle Cell trait, which doesn't cause any symptoms, and the form with associated symptoms. The disease can lead to chronic anemia, pain, fatigue, acute chest syndrome, stroke, and other serious health complications due to the obstruction and shortage of blood flow caused by the distorted red blood cells.

India has a high prevalence of SCD, with approximately 18 million people having the Sickle Cell trait and 1.4 million patients with SCD. The disease is particularly widespread among tribal populations, with about 1 in 86 births among Scheduled Tribes (STs) resulting in SCD. States like Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Odisha, Kerala, and Rajasthan have a significantly higher prevalence, collectively referred to as the sickle cell belt.

To tackle SCD, India has adopted a two-pronged approach. The first focuses on prevention by screening individuals for the Sickle Cell trait before marriage to avoid the transmission of the disease to their children. The second approach involves providing healthcare facilities and managing treatment for individuals already affected by SCD. Efforts are being made to develop a comprehensive ecosystem that ensures access to proper healthcare and management for SCD patients.

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) has launched the Sickle Cell Disease Support Corner, a web-based portal that bridges the gap between patients and healthcare services in tribal areas. This portal enables the registration of SCD patients and collects information related to the disease among tribal people in India. Additionally, the National Council on Sickle Cell Disease has been established to facilitate timely and effective action.

The NSCAEM, announced in the Union Budget 2023, is a mission mode initiative aimed at eradicating sickle cell anaemia from India by 2047, with a focus on the tribal population. The mission includes extensive screening of approximately 70 million individuals aged 0-40 years in tribal and other groups residing in nearly 200 districts across 17 states. After screening, individuals will be provided with smart cards in their local language, allowing prospective partners to determine the risk of having children with SCD.

Monitoring mechanisms will be established to ensure widespread participation and awareness. Identified individuals will receive regular testing, treatment, medication, vaccinations, dietary support, and counseling services. The Ayushman Bharat scheme, which has established a network of Health and Wellness Centres across the country, will also play a crucial role in eradicating SCD. These centers have trained healthcare workers who provide treatment for sickle cell patients.

The government has allocated a sufficient budget, utilized advanced technology, provided training to healthcare workers, and focused on social awareness and participation to combat this disease. The NSCAEM aims to secure the future of India's tribal communities, which constitute 8.6% of the population and hold a significant part of the country's cultural heritage.

By eliminating SCD, India will preserve the health and well-being of its tribal populations, ensuring the continuation of their rich cultural heritage for generations to come.

Thank You