June 18, 2025 – In a major step towards fighting sickle cell disease (SCD), the Delta State Government has launched a free genotype testing initiative for newborns under 28 days old. This move, announced as part of the 2025 World Sickle Cell Day activities, is being carried out in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Primary Health Care Centres across the state.
The program, which spans across 23 Local Government Areas, aims to ensure early detection of sickle cell disease in infants. With early diagnosis, health professionals can begin treatment promptly, improving the chances of survival and reducing long-term complications.
At a sensitization event held at Anioma Market along Okpanam Road in Asaba, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, represented by the Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Dr. Uche Okwe, highlighted the benefits of the initiative.
“This is a proactive step to give our children a fighting chance from infancy,” Dr. Onojaeme stated. “Early detection leads to early intervention, which is crucial in reducing the burden of sickle cell disease in our communities.”
He encouraged parents, especially those with the AS genotype, to take full advantage of the free testing opportunity. Dr. Onojaeme pointed out that living with sickle cell disease comes with serious challenges such as stunted growth, school absenteeism, kidney failure, and even paralysis. The condition also imposes heavy financial pressure on families.
While medical advances like bone marrow transplants and gene therapy offer hope for treatment, Dr. Onojaeme admitted these options are not easily accessible due to high costs. He advised couples who both have the AS genotype to reconsider getting married to help reduce the number of children born with the disease.
The event also featured remarks from the State Sickle Cell Coordinator, Dr. Onyinye Omumu, who highlighted the theme for this year’s World Sickle Cell Day: “Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self-Advocacy.”
Dr. Omumu noted, “This theme is meant to drive awareness on new treatments and how they truly affect people living with this condition. Newborn screening is a powerful way to cut down on child deaths and improve lives in the long term.”
She added that all Central Hospitals and tertiary health facilities in Delta State are now actively participating in the free screening program. According to her, this rollout is part of the state’s strong effort to reduce the impact of the disease.
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Dr. Omumu concluded by urging couples to undergo genotype testing before marriage and to take the time to understand the full consequences of sickle cell disease. She emphasized that informed decisions today could save lives tomorrow.