NOA creates awareness on sickle cell disease to A’Ibom residents

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Akwa Ibom State residents to ensure they know their genotypes before marriage. This knowledge will help avoid incidents of sickle cell disease in the state.

The Akwa Ibom Director of NOA, Mr Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, advised while briefing newsmen in Uyo on Thursday to mark Sickle Cell Day.

Mkpoutom urged the citizens to have knowledge of their genotypes before marriage and avoid high-risk unions such as AS/AS, AS/SS and SS/SS.

“Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder characterised by the presence of abnormal haemoglobin, known as haemoglobin S (HbS).

“This disease affects the shape of the red blood cells, turning them into a crescent or ‘sickle’ shape, which can lead to various health complications.

“These abnormally shaped cells are less flexible and can obstruct blood flow in small vessels, leading to tissue ischemia and pain, known as sickle cell crisis,” Mkpoutom said.

He urged parents, teachers and caregivers to break the silence and discuss genotypes openly in homes, faith centres and schools.

According to him, with knowledge, compassion and early care, we can wage and win the war against sickle cell.

Mkpoutom directed the Community Mobilisation Officers (COMOs) in the 31 LGAs. They needed to ensure that the message got to the grassroots quickly.

In her remarks, Mrs Nsidibe Udoette, Head, Department of Community Safety, Awareness and Compliance, NOA, Akwa Ibom Directorate, said that individuals with sickle cell disease could lead fulfilling lives. Appropriate management and support are essential. Healthy lifestyle modifications also play a vital role.

She added that sickle cell disease is a complex, lifelong condition that requires ongoing care and management.