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New Delhi, June 20, 2025 — In a significant public health milestone, the Union Ministry of Health announced that over 5.72 crore people have been screened for sickle cell disease (SCD) as of June 3, 2025, marking a major step toward India’s goal of eliminating the genetic disorder as a public health problem before 2047.
Awareness and Action on World Sickle Cell Day
The announcement came on World Sickle Cell Day, observed annually on June 19, to raise awareness about the debilitating genetic blood disorder. Sickle cell disease causes chronic anemia, acute painful episodes, organ damage, and significantly reduces life expectancy. The disease is especially prevalent among India’s tribal populations, though it also affects non-tribal communities.
National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission on July 1, 2023, from Madhya Pradesh. The mission has already achieved over 75% of its three-year screening target, with more than 2.65 crore screenings conducted in just one year since April 2024. States have issued 2.50 crore sickle cell status cards, identifying 1.98 lakh diseased patients and 14 lakh individuals with the sickle cell trait. All diagnosed patients are currently receiving appropriate treatment.
Symptoms and Community Engagement
The Ministry highlighted that frequent fever, recurring pain, swelling, poor growth in children, repeated jaundice, breathlessness, and other symptoms may indicate complications from sickle cell anemia. The government urged people not to delay consulting a doctor and emphasized that early action can make a significant difference.
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda stressed the importance of raising awareness, promoting early diagnosis, and supporting ongoing research. He called for efforts to break the stigma associated with the disease and ensure care for all affected individuals.
India’s Global Burden and Future Goals
India has the second-highest burden of sickle cell disease globally. The government’s ambitious mission aims to cover 7 crore people with screening, counseling, and care within three and a half years, with a focus on tribal and high-prevalence states. The initiative is part of broader efforts to address one of the country’s most urgent yet under-recognized public health challenges.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is based on official government statements and news reports as of June 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to consult healthcare professionals for medical advice or further information. The views and recommendations in this article do not substitute for professional medical guidance.
