World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is held annually on June 19, in order to help increase public knowledge and raise awareness of blood diseases. The date was officially adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations.
The World Health Assembly has called upon affected countries and the Secretariat of WHO to strengthen their response to these conditions. In addition, a resolution was adopted on taking health measures about the prevention and management of genetic diseases for future generations, including sickle cell disease.
Key Facts:
- Sickle cell anemia affects millions around the world.
- Sickle cell anemia disease is hereditary not contagious.
- There is no definitive cure for patients with sickle cell anemia, but it can be avoided by pre-marital screening.
- There is a difference between the sickle anemia and iron deficiency anemia.
- Like healthy persons, patient with sickle cell trait does not show symptoms.
Objectives of World Sickle Cell Day:
- Increasing awareness of community of the global burden of SCD disorder.
- Urging health institutions to pay attention to sickle cell anemia through developing health programs at the national level and operating specialized centers to facilitate access to treatment.
- Raising awareness of the importance of pre-marital screening to reduce transmission of sickle cell disease among generations.
- Promoting and supporting research to improve quality of life for those affected.
Official Date:
- Globally: June 19th, 2017
- Locally: Ramadan 24th, 1438H
Theme of the World Sickle Cell Day:
"Break the Sickle Cycle"
Target Groups:
- Sickle cell anemia patients and their families.
- Those planning to get married.
- Health workers including physicians, nurses and health educators.
- Health decisions makers.
- Health associations and organizations.
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