PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, June 19: Union tribal affairs minister Arjun Munda today called upon the people for their involvement in the mission to eliminate Sickle Cell Disease from the country.
He was addressing a virtual sensitization workshop on Sickle Cell Anaemia Disease, organised at the National Tribal Research Institute in New Delhi.
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a genetic condition, is widespread among the tribal population in India where it is estimated that about 1 in 86 births among STs have SCD.
The disease affects haemoglobin (responsible for carrying oxygen in the body) in red blood cells, which can result in morbidity and mortality via distinct pathways.
Therefore, early detection, management, and treatment of SCD is of utmost importance to enable the affected individuals to lead a long and fulfilling life. The elimination of the disease is extremely significant for the general health conditions of the nation.
In order to discuss recent developments in the management of Sickle Cell condition, including early detection and new treatments, the workshop brought together a group of experts on the condition from throughout India.
Taking note of the importance of this day, the union minister appealed, “Under the visionary guidance of the Prime Minister, Sickle Cell elimination has been undertaken in the mission mode by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs; however, all of us need to make a collaborative effort to address this issue by working at the individual level to educate people about the disease, especially at the grassroots level. I appeal to all the medical experts, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Ministry of Ayush, Health Organisations, Health Departments to give impetus to the cause of good health for tribals and ensure that quality healthcare is provided to those affected by this disease to create a positive impact in the health of the tribal population.”
Further, he urged state governments to co-operate in this goal by ensuring proper infrastructure and facilities. “We need to ensure that individuals — especially women and children — are free from this disease and it doesn’t impact the coming generation,” he added.
Munda also assured that the ministry would continue to work with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare along with other relevant ministries, government officials, stakeholders, clinicians and experts for prevention, control, and management of sickle cell disease.
The welcome address was delivered by Anil Kumar Jha, secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
