The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Alimosho General Hospital, Dr. Akinyele Akinlade, has commended the Lagos State Government for the landmark rollout of newborn screening for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) across the State.
Speaking during the commemoration of the 2026 World Sickle Cell Day organised by the Hospital’s Haematology Department, Dr. Akinyele explained that the initiative will ensure that every newborn is screened for Sickle Cell Disease within 48 to 72 hours after birth using a simple heel-prick test. Babies identified as being at risk will immediately be placed on preventive care while awaiting confirmatory testing.
He described Sickle Cell Disease as an inherited blood disorder that is not contagious, noting that individuals living with the condition are more susceptible to infections. He advised SCD warriors to stay well hydrated, avoid stress, and protect themselves from extreme cold or heat, as these are common triggers of sickle cell crises. According to him, these preventive measures can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of crises.
Earlier, while welcoming participants to the event, the Head of the Haematology Department and Convener of the programme, Dr. Olubukola Orolu said the theme for this year’s celebration, “Young Voices Rising for Sickle Cell Disease – Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Disease,” highlights the importance of listening to the experiences and aspirations of young people living with Sickle Cell Disease.
She noted that SCD warriors are increasingly breaking barriers as advocates, leaders, students and change-makers, adding that their voices have continued to reshape the narrative through advocacy for equitable, patient-centred healthcare, self-care and experience sharing. She therefore called for equal access to quality healthcare, survival opportunities and dignity for everyone living with Sickle Cell Disease.
Speaking on the burden of the disease, Dr. Orolu revealed that an estimated 150,000 babies are born annually with Sickle Cell Disease in Nigeria, giving the country one of the highest SCD burdens globally. She, however, applauded the Lagos State Government and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) for introducing the statewide newborn screening programme, describing it as a major step towards reducing childhood deaths associated with the disease.
One of the participants, Borokini Zainab, an SCD warrior and student nurse, expressed appreciation to the organisers for the enlightenment programme. Sharing her personal journey, she spoke about the challenges of balancing recurrent pain crises with her academic pursuits and personal life. Despite moments of frustration, she encouraged fellow warriors not to lose hope.
“Don’t let sickle cell put you down. Be encouraged from within. Don’t let your dreams be shattered because of this,” she said.
She added that her personal experience with Sickle Cell Disease inspired her to pursue a career in nursing so she could support others living with the condition.
As part of activities marking the day, participants received health education on oral hygiene, proper nutrition to boost immunity, and kidney care. Warriors were advised to remain adequately hydrated and avoid herbal concoctions or unprescribed medications that could damage the kidneys. The programme also featured free screening for Packed Cell Volume (PCV) and Hepatitis B.
The event received strong support from Fidson Healthcare Plc, represented by Mr. Nwabufo Onukwube, who delivered a goodwill message and educated participants on the benefits of amino acids in supporting the health and well-being of individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease.
The World Sickle Cell Day celebration reaffirmed Alimosho General Hospital’s commitment to raising awareness, promoting early diagnosis, and improving the quality of life of people living with Sickle Cell Disease through education, advocacy and quality healthcare services.
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