"Sickle Cell Alert: Over 1,500 Affected in Gondia, Health Officials on Mission Mode"

Gondia: Sickle Cell Cases Rising in the District

On the occasion of Sickle Cell Control Day on June 19, awareness drives and free testing camps were organized in Gondia district to tackle the rising number of sickle cell anemia patients. The condition is a hereditary blood disorder predominantly found in tribal and backward communities.

Key Facts:

• Sickle cell disease affects red blood cells, causing anemia and recurring health problems like joint pain, fatigue, and delayed growth.
• Gondia district has 1573 sickle cell patients and 1523 carriers, identified through mass testing.
• Over 5157 couples have undergone pre-marriage screening to prevent the transmission of this hereditary disease.

Symptoms Include:

• Fatigue, shortness of breath, joint pain
• Stomach pain, swelling, and frequent infections
• Low hemoglobin levels and pale appearance

Government Initiatives:

1. Free testing in schools and tribal areas
2. Health awareness drives in rural villages
3. Medical aid and free treatment for patients
4. Monthly financial support for families
5. Special education assistance for affected students

Important Advice: If both partners are carriers, marriage should be avoided to reduce the risk of giving birth to an affected child.

These awareness and screening efforts are part of Maharashtra’s larger mission to eradicate sickle cell anemia, especially in tribal-dominated areas like Gondia.