Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Health
Why in News?
Recently, India co-hosted the launch of OneSCD, a global partnership aimed at advancing equity and transforming Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) care.
- Held on – The sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 81) in New York.
- Key Components
- Population-wide screening – It facilitates the identification of affected individuals and carriers.
- Early diagnosis – It allows for prompt and effective management.
- Counselling – It provides essential support to both patients and their families.
- Treatment & follow-up – It aims to ensure continuous care.
- Particular emphasis is placed on addressing barriers related to the following factors:
- Place of residence
- Socio-economic circumstances
India’s National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission
- Year of Launch – 2023
- Objective – To eliminate sickle cell disease as a public health concern in India by 2047.
- Approach – It employs population-scale screening, early diagnosis, counselling, treatment, and systematic follow-up.
- Implementation – Integration within existing public health systems
- Guiding Principle – It prioritizes equitable access to timely and continuous care.
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Sickle Cell Disease
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- Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a hereditary genetic blood disorder.
- SCD affects haemoglobin, the protein responsible for transporting oxygen in red blood cells.
- The presence of abnormal haemoglobin results in red blood cells adopting a sickle shape.
- These sickle-shaped cells may obstruct blood flow, leading to complications including anaemia and recurrent pain episodes.
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Reference
News on Air | OneSCD (Sickle Cell Disease)
