By Ebele Egoh
As the world commemorates World Sickle Cell Day, the Anambra State Hospital Administrator, Dr. Frank Ifeanaeme, has urged members of the public to know their genotype as a crucial step towards preventing the spread of sickle cell disease.
Speaking in his office on June 19, Dr. Ifeanaeme emphasized that early genotype testing remains one of the most effective measures for reducing the prevalence and impact of the disease in Nigeria.
He observed that many couples unknowingly expose their future children to the risk of inheriting sickle cell disorder by failing to ascertain their genotype compatibility before marriage.
According to him, sickle cell disease continues to affect thousands of families across the country, resulting in significant health challenges, emotional trauma and financial strain.
Dr. Ifeanaeme explained that couples with incompatible genotypes, particularly where both partners carry the sickle cell trait, face a higher likelihood of having children affected by the condition.
He encouraged young people to make genotype screening a routine part of their healthcare and an important consideration when making marital and relationship decisions.
The Hospital Administrator also called on schools, religious organisations and community leaders to intensify awareness campaigns on the importance of genotype testing and genetic counselling.
He stressed that prevention remains more effective, less costly and less burdensome than the long-term treatment and management of sickle cell disease.
Dr. Ifeanaeme appealed to government and healthcare stakeholders to expand access to affordable genotype testing services, especially in underserved communities, to help reduce the incidence of the disease.
Ebele Egoh is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
