The Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland–Nigeria (SCAIIN), which is a non-governmental organisation has launched an awareness campaign in Port Harcourt aimed at combating stigma, misinformation, and poor understanding of sickle cell disorder in Nigeria.
The one-day medical outreach, held at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, focused on breaking the long-standing cycle of pain, silence, and discrimination associated with the condition through research-driven advocacy, public education, and community engagement.
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Speaking at the event, SCAIIN founder, Mrs Esther Pepple Onolememen, said the campaign was designed to improve the quality of life and health outcomes of people living with sickle cell disorder while fostering public acceptance and support for affected individuals and their families.
According to her, ignorance and deep-rooted social stigma continue to worsen the challenges faced by patients, often leading to delayed treatment, emotional distress, and social exclusion. She stressed that sustained public awareness and early medical intervention are essential to reducing the burden of the disease in the country.
“Together, we are rewriting the story of sickle cell in Nigeria, from silence to knowledge, from stigma to support, and from neglect to action,” Onolememen said.
She commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for supporting public health initiatives and recognising sickle cell disorder as not only a medical issue but also a social and developmental concern.
Onolememen also called on the Federal Government to introduce a national newborn screening programme for sickle cell disorder, describing it as a critical step toward early diagnosis, effective planning, and comprehensive care for affected children across Nigeria.
