Context: Recently, a significant milestone was crossed as more than 1 crore individuals were screened for Sickle Cell Disease under the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission.

National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission

• About: This program, which was introduced in the 2023 Union Budget, is centred on tackling the healthcare issues associated with sickle cell disease within tribal communities.
• Mission: Enhance the quality of care for all individuals affected by Sickle Cell Disease, aiming for a brighter future.

oDecrease the prevalence of the disease through a comprehensive and well-coordinated strategy involving screening and awareness initiatives.

• Vision: By 2047, completely eradicate sickle cell disease as a public health concern in India.
• At the outset, the emphasis will be on 17 states that exhibit a higher incidence of Sickle Cell Disease. 
• These states include Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Bihar, and Uttarakhand.

oMP is a state with the highest tribal population in terms of absolute numbers as per Census 2011 and also has the highest burden of sickle cell anaemia.

Sickle Cell Anemia

• About: It is one of a group of inherited disorders known as sickle cell disease.
• Cause: It is caused by a change in the gene that tells the body to make the iron-rich compound in red blood cells called hemoglobin.
• Symptoms: Extreme tiredness or irritability due to anaemia, painful swelling of hands and feet, and jaundice in the early stages.
• Treatment: Blood transfusions alleviate anaemia and lower pain crisis risk.