Ugochukwu Iwuchukwu
A Consultant Haematologist at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital UPTH Dr. KALADADA KORUBO has called for an end of stigmatization for sickle cells patients in the country.
Dr. KALADADA KORUBO, who is also a senior lecturer at the University said stigmatizing those with sickle cell anemia could lead to depression.
She said those living with the disease are normal human beings and need to be treated with love and care.
Dr. KALADADA KORUBO also insisted that intending couples should ensure they know their genotype before getting married.
Meanwhile, a former Governorship aspirant in Rivers State, TONYE COLE has called on government agencies in the state to create more awareness for sickle cell anemia in rural communities in the state.
TONYE COLE who stated this during a sickle cell awareness programme in Port Harcourt said the high prevalence rate of the disease in the country is a source of concerns for stakeholders in the health sector.
He said that Nigerians should endeavour to know their genotype before committing to marriage.
TONYE COLE stated many Nigerians have lost their loved ones to the disease.
In the meantime, a non-governmental organization, the Sickle Cell Interactive and Management Association, SCIMA, has called for more training for medical professionals on ways to effectively manage sickle cell anemia.
The founder of the Sickle Cell Interactive and Management Association IFEOMA IFEJIKA said more training for medical experts will reduce the prevalence rate of the disease in Nigeria.
Another group, the Sickle Cell Academy Forum SCAF has frowned at the attitude of Faith Based organizations concerning the issues of sickle cell anemia.
A member of the medical team of the Sickle Cell Academy Forum Dr. JOSEPH AGBI said some organizations do not inform their members on the need for intending couples to know their genotype before marriage.
