Sickle Cell disease is a hereditary blood disorder, characterized by red blood cells that assume an abnormal, rigid, sickle shape. Sickling decreases the cells flexibility and results in a risk of various complications.

Sickle Cell Anaemia is a genetic disorder, mainly seen among the tribal population.

Gujarat state is a frontrunner in India to start a Sickle Cell Anaemia Control Program in all 12 tribal districts in a phased manner. Gujarat Sickle Cell Anemia Control Society was formed in 2011. This program helps in early diagnosis through:

• Screening on mission mode
• New Born Screening
• Prenatal Diagnosis
• Antenatal Care (ANC) Screening

Treatment of Sickle Cell Disease patients through basic medications like Folic Acid and Pain Killers, Intravenous Fluids, antibiotics, Pneumococcal vaccine, life saving Hydroxyurea therapy and blood transfusion is done at free of cost.

Under this programme, capacity building of Doctors, paramedical staff and ASHA workers is also done.

Gradually this programme is reaching to the doorstep of most vulnerable tribal population in Gujarat.