We are reducing burden of Sickle Cell Disease — FMC Ebute Metta

By Chioma Obinna

With annual infant deaths of 100,000 from Sickle Cell Disease, SCD, in Nigeria, the Management of the Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Ebute Metta, Lagos said the hospital has been in the forefront of reducing the burden of the disorder through introduction of genotype screening for all newborn babies in the hospital.

The Medical Director of the hospital, Dr. Adedamola Dada, said the screening of newborns is to ensure early diagnosis and prompt management of the disorder.

Speaking during an event to mark the 2018 World Sickle Cell Day with the theme: Sickle Cell Disease: Consolidating Our Gains, Dada who regretted that Nigeria by its virtue of population stands out as the most affected  country in Africa said one out of every four Nigerians has the sickle cell trait, hence, the need for more awareness  on the existence, consequences, prevention and care of…