Gujarat Screens 83.68 Lakh People in Tribal Areas, Finds Over 30,500 Sickle Cell Patients

Gujarat has emerged as the third-highest state in the country in terms of the burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), with official data revealing a significant number of cases in tribal regions.

According to the data, 83,68,078 people have been screened for sickle cell disease in Gujarat's tribal areas. The screening identified 30,521 patients suffering from the disease, while 5,48,820 people were found to be sickle cell carriers, indicating a substantial at-risk population.

Experts Call for Better Treatment and Awareness

Health experts say the high number of carriers is a matter of concern, as two carriers can pass the disease on to their children if both carry the sickle cell trait.

They have urged the government to ensure the availability of medicines and timely treatment for patients, particularly in tribal areas where the disease is most prevalent.

Experts also stressed the need for large-scale awareness campaigns, genetic counselling and screening programmes to help carriers understand the risks and prevent a rise in future cases.