Gujarat govt runs statewide campaign to eradicate Sickle cell disease

The Gujarat government commenced a statewide campaign to eradicate Sickle cell disease. Around 65,000 people are to be examined under the initiative undertaken by the state government.

The campaign began in Mandvi Tehsil of Gujarat, and is primarily focused on rural areas. The government began its campaign on World Sickle Cell Day (June 19) and it will end on July 3rd.

Teams of doctors have been deployed in parts of the state, and over 50 hospitals have been involved in the campaign.

Notably, sickle cell disease is a series of genetic red blood cell abnormalities that adversely affect haemoglobin levels in the body. Due to genetic mutations, RCBs become sickle-shaped. Currently, there is no cure for this disease.

Symptomatic individuals will be sent to the district hospital for further treatment. Some of the symptoms of this disease are anaemia, joint pain, breathing problems, and jaundice.

Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a nationwide campaign to curb sickle cell disease.

Around 10 per cent of Gujarat's population, which is around 8.5 million, have been affected by the disease.