By Emma Okereh
To curb the menace of sickle cell disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD),Wednesday, distributed the NIPRISAN, Niclovix, anti- sickle cell capsules drugs to patients in the nation’s capital territory.
Briefing newsmen at the Institute’s Health Week programme, the Director, Research Clinic (NIPRD), Dr Margaret Ekpenyong, stated that the health week programme is to create more awareness and educate Nigerians especially at the local communities on how to prevent future occurrences as well as the need to prevent its occurence in the society.
According to her, Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder affecting red blood cells, with high morbidity and mortality rates.
Ekpenyong noted that the United Nations has recognized SCD as a global public health concern, and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that 50% of member states would have established SCD control programs by 2023 (World Health Organization, 2026).
According to statistics, among underage children, less than 18 years of age in Africa, between the 12-14 20-30 has the highest rate of mobility which make entire African countries to take the lead in this deadly disease so far.
However, the incidence, prevalence, morbidity, and mortality; current practices and challenges related to screening, diagnosis, and treatment; and recommendations for practice, policy, and research to improve health outcomes of children with SCD in Africa.
The institute was designated a center of excellence in Africa sub-sahara region in research and development of drugs vaccines, phytomedicines, and diagnosis towards improving the health and wellbeing of Nigerians.
We have also achieved in time of sickle cell disorder, tuberculosis, malarial, fungal infections, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and health data management since the inception of the institute.
“There have been significant improvements in the morbidity and mortality rates for children with SCD in high resource countries such as the United States due to factors such as early diagnosis through newborn babies screening programs, prophylactic therapy, comprehensive care programs including hydroxyurea therapy, and bone marrow transplant.”
“Many of these interventions can confer the same benefits to SCD patients in Africa. Newborn screening for SCD, developing partnerships between high resource countries and countries in Africa to support training of healthcare workers, research, and sharing of knowledge can help to reduce the SCD burden in Africa, she added.”
The Health Week featured lecture/keynote address delivered by Prof Emeje, interactive session with sufferers and care givers. It also featured goodwill messages that poured in from stakeholders and partners among them are seasoned pharmaceuticals. It also witnessed the inauguration of a new clinic for the department.
