In commemoration of the 2025 World Sickle Cell Day, the Delta State Government has launched free genotype testing for newborns within their first 28 days of life.
The initiative, in partnership with the WHO and Primary Health Centres, will run across 23 LGAs to enable early detection and prompt care for infants at risk of sickle cell disease.
Speaking during a sensitization campaign at the Anioma Market, along Okpanam Road in Asaba, Commissioner for Health, Delta State, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, represented by the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Dr. Uche Okwe, urged parents especially AS carriers, to take advantage of the program.
He emphasized that early diagnosis improves survival and advised couples to check their genotypes before marriage.
Also speaking at the event, the state Sickle Cell coordinator, Dr. Onyinye Omumu, highlighted the theme for this year’s World Sickle Cell Day observed annually on June 19, ‘Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self-Advocacy.’
Dr. Omumu explained that the theme seeks to spark conversations about emerging treatments and the impact they have on the lives of those living with the disease.
She further announced that all Central Hospitals and tertiary healthcare in Delta state are now offering the free newborn screening as part of the state’s commitment to combating the disease.
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