Latest news with #NationalSickleCellMission
Hans India
7 days ago
- Health
- Hans India
Six crore screened for sickle cell disease: Health Ministry
A total of six crore individuals have been screened for sickle cell disease (SCD) against the targeted seven crore under the National Sickle Cell Mission, the Union health ministry said . Among those screened, 2.15 lakh individuals were diagnosed with the disease and 16.7 lakh carriers identified. Additionally, 2.6 crore health cards have been distributed by the respective states to the screened individuals, the ministry said. States including Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Telangana, Karnataka and Uttarakhand have demonstrated significant progress by achieving a high percentage of screening relative to their targets. The highest incidence of diagnosed cases has been reported from the states of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat. Screening for SCD is being conducted using validated point-of-care testing (POCT) kits, which ensure rapid, reliable and confirmatory results. Furthermore, a dedicated dashboard and a sickle cell disease portal have been established to consolidate the screening data from all participating states, the ministry said. Future priorities encompass intensifying screening efforts to meet the target and ensuring follow-up and counselling services for individuals diagnosed as diseased or carriers. The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 1, 2023 at Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh. The mission aims to eliminate sickle cell anaemia in the country by 2047 through the creation of awareness, universal screening of seven crore individuals aged 0-40 years in affected tribal areas by FY 2025-26 and a provision of counselling through collaborative efforts of central ministries and state governments.
The Hindu
23-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Six crore people screened for sickle cell disease: Health Ministry
A total of six crore individuals have been screened for sickle cell disease (SCD) against the targeted seven crore under the National Sickle Cell Mission, the Union Health Ministry said on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Among those screened, 2.15 lakh individuals were diagnosed with the disease and 16.7 lakh carriers identified. Additionally, 2.6 crore health cards have been distributed by the respective States to the screened individuals, the Ministry said. States including Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Telangana, Karnataka and Uttarakhand have demonstrated significant progress by achieving a high percentage of screening relative to their targets. The highest incidence of diagnosed cases has been reported from the states of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat. Screening for SCD is being conducted using validated point-of-care testing (POCT) kits, which ensure rapid, reliable and confirmatory results. Furthermore, a dedicated dashboard and a sickle cell disease portal have been established to consolidate the screening data from all participating States, the Ministry said. Future priorities encompass intensifying screening efforts to meet the target and ensuring follow-up and counselling services for individuals diagnosed as diseased or carriers. The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 1, 2023 at Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh. The mission aims to eliminate sickle cell anaemia in the country by 2047 through the creation of awareness, universal screening of seven crore individuals aged 0-40 years in affected tribal areas by FY 2025-26 and a provision of counselling through collaborative efforts of Central Ministries and State governments.
The Print
23-07-2025
- Health
- The Print
6 crore people screened for sickle cell disease: Health ministry
States including Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Telangana, Karnataka and Uttarakhand have demonstrated significant progress by achieving a high percentage of screening relative to their targets. The highest incidence of diagnosed cases has been reported from the states of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat. Among those screened, 2.15 lakh individuals were diagnosed with the disease and 16.7 lakh carriers identified. Additionally, 2.6 crore health cards have been distributed by the respective states to the screened individuals, the ministry said. New Delhi, Jul 22 (PTI) A total of six crore individuals have been screened for sickle cell disease (SCD) against the targeted seven crore under the National Sickle Cell Mission, the Union health ministry said on Tuesday. Screening for SCD is being conducted using validated point-of-care testing (POCT) kits, which ensure rapid, reliable and confirmatory results. Furthermore, a dedicated dashboard and a sickle cell disease portal have been established to consolidate the screening data from all participating states, the ministry said. Future priorities encompass intensifying screening efforts to meet the target and ensuring follow-up and counselling services for individuals diagnosed as diseased or carriers. The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 1, 2023 at Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh. The mission aims to eliminate sickle cell anaemia in the country by 2047 through the creation of awareness, universal screening of seven crore individuals aged 0-40 years in affected tribal areas by FY 2025-26 and a provision of counselling through collaborative efforts of central ministries and state governments. PTI PLB RC This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
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Business Standard
23-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
60 mn people screened for sickle cell disease, says health ministry
A total of six crore individuals have been screened for sickle cell disease (SCD) against the targeted seven crore under the National Sickle Cell Mission, the Union health ministry said on Tuesday. Among those screened, 2.15 lakh individuals were diagnosed with the disease and 16.7 lakh carriers identified. Additionally, 2.6 crore health cards have been distributed by the respective states to the screened individuals, the ministry said. States including Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Telangana, Karnataka and Uttarakhand have demonstrated significant progress by achieving a high percentage of screening relative to their targets. The highest incidence of diagnosed cases has been reported from the states of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat. Screening for SCD is being conducted using validated point-of-care testing (POCT) kits, which ensure rapid, reliable and confirmatory results. Furthermore, a dedicated dashboard and a sickle cell disease portal have been established to consolidate the screening data from all participating states, the ministry said. Future priorities encompass intensifying screening efforts to meet the target and ensuring follow-up and counselling services for individuals diagnosed as diseased or carriers. The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 1, 2023 at Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh. The mission aims to eliminate sickle cell anaemia in the country by 2047 through the creation of awareness, universal screening of seven crore individuals aged 0-40 years in affected tribal areas by FY 2025-26 and a provision of counselling through collaborative efforts of central ministries and state governments.
Hindustan Times
26-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Early Clues, Lifelong Impact: Understanding Sickle Cell DiseaseUntitled Story
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is one of India's persistent public health concerns. It is a genetic blood disorder that alters the shape and function of red blood cells. These cells become sickle-shaped, stiff, and sticky, causing them to block blood flow. This can result in a range of complications, from pain crisis, extreme fatigue, infections, delayed growth, and organ damage. India faces 1.4 million SCD cases, with 20 million carriers nationwide SCD has a significant prevalence in India, particularly in certain high-risk regions across central and eastern states. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), approximately 20 million individuals carry the sickle cell trait, with over 1.4 million cases of SCD reported nationwide. Early identification remains the most effective way to prevent long-term damage. Why Early Detection Matters Many babies are screened for SCD at birth in countries with strong neonatal screening programs. In India, however, awareness is still growing, and universal screening is being scaled gradually under the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission. Launched by Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2023, this mission aims to screen over 7 crore people by 2026 and eliminate the disease as a public health issue by 2047. Source: PIB – National Sickle Cell Mission, July 2023 Unfortunately, in the absence of early diagnosis, children with SCD may go undiagnosed until they experience a severe health episode. Subtle signs often mistaken for common ailments can be early indicators that something is wrong. Early Signs You Shouldn't Ignore 1. Unexplained Fatigue or Weakness Children with SCD often suffer from anaemia, resulting in chronic fatigue or breathlessness even after mild exertion. 2. Swollen Hands or Feet in Infants A condition known as "dactylitis," or painful swelling in hands and feet, can be one of the earliest signs of blocked blood flow due to sickled cells. 3. Recurring Infections The spleen, which plays a key role in fighting infections, may become damaged early in children with SCD, making them more vulnerable to fevers, pneumonia, and other bacterial infections. 4. Yellowing of the Eyes or Skin Jaundice is common in children with SCD due to the rapid breakdown of defective red blood cells. 5. Delayed Growth and Puberty Lack of healthy red blood cells can impact physical growth and hormonal development. 6. Pain Episodes or 'Pain Crises' Even without visible injury, children may complain of severe pain in the chest, abdomen, bones, or joints. These episodes can last hours or days. 'Sickle Cell Disease is not curable in all cases, but it is preventable and manageable. Early screening—especially premarital or prenatal—can significantly reduce the disease burden. And for those diagnosed, timely medical care can vastly improve quality of life,' says Dr. Dipty Jain, Former Chair, Dept of Pediatrics, Government Medical College, Nagpur, and Chairman of the Task Force on SCD Elimination. Taking Action If your child or someone in your family is showing multiple signs listed above—or if there is a family history of the disease—consult a medical professional. A simple blood test, such as the haemoglobin electrophoresis test or solubility test, can detect whether someone is a carrier or has the disease. Treatment and Management Options While there is currently no universal cure, treatment options can help manage the disease effectively: Hydroxyurea: A medication that reduces pain episodes and the need for transfusions. Vaccinations & Antibiotics: Essential to reduce infection risk, especially in young children. Routine Monitoring: Regular health checkups to monitor organ function and growth. Bone Marrow Transplant: The only known potential cure for some patients, especially children with matched donors. A National Call to Action India's National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission is now operational in 17 states and 278 districts. As of March 2024, June 2025, over 5,79,35,688 crore individuals have been screened. The mission prioritizes awareness, outreach, and community engagement, especially in regions with higher genetic prevalence. Source: In Closing Sickle Cell Disease rarely announces itself loudly. It enters quietly, through pain episodes, fatigue, mild fevers, or a child who seems to fall ill too often. But by recognising the early signs, seeking testing, and beginning treatment, we can change the story. Every timely diagnosis is a step towards healthier, longer lives and a future free from the burden of this inherited condition. Sources: National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission Guidelines – NHM, MoHFW Press Information Bureau: National Sickle Cell Mission Launch – July 2023 UN Resolution A/RES/63/237 – Recognition of World Sickle Cell Day PIB: Progress Update – March 2024 Note: This article has been produced on behalf of the brand by HT Brand Studio and does not have the journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. The information provided does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a registered medical practitioner for health-related concerns.
