The Health Department, in collaboration with the Scheduled Tribes Development Department, has launched a year-long special campaign titled ‘Know and Eliminate Sickle Cell Disease’ to raise awareness and promote prevention across Kerala. This initiative focuses on educating the public about sickle cell disease, its symptoms, available treatment centres, assistance programs, and related healthcare aspects for affected individuals, especially pregnant women and children.

The campaign places special emphasis on Kerala’s tribal communities, with awareness activities being conducted in regional tribal languages to ensure effective communication. Information about the disease and its management will be widely disseminated, aiming to eliminate sickle cell disease through increased awareness and early detection.

Special screening drives are underway to identify patients within tribal areas. Since 2007, the state has implemented a comprehensive treatment program for sickle cell disease, with screening and follow-up care already being conducted in Wayanad and Attappady. In 2023, the program was extended to Nilambur and Attappady blocks as part of a national-level initiative covering 17 high-risk states. This year, it is being expanded to the districts of Kannur, Kasaragod, and Idukki.

Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder where red blood cells, normally disc-shaped, become sickle-shaped. This change reduces their oxygen-carrying capacity and shortens their lifespan from 120 days to just 30–40 days. These misshaped cells can block small blood vessels, disrupting blood flow and damaging organs like the brain, lungs, bones, spleen, kidneys, liver, and reproductive system.

While there is no permanent cure yet, treatments such as folic acid supplements, bone marrow transplants (particularly effective in children), and emerging therapies like phytochemicals (e.g., Nicosan) and gene therapy offer some hope. However, these remain limited or experimental. Despite treatment constraints, the campaign aims to reduce disease severity and increase public understanding.

The government has also introduced support measures such as regular screenings, pensions, and hospital-based treatments. Affected tribal patients receive ₹2500 from the Scheduled Tribes Development Department, while others receive ₹2000 through the Social Security Mission.

By prioritizing awareness and early detection, especially in vulnerable communities, Kerala is making significant strides toward the national goal of eliminating sickle cell disease by 2047, ensuring better healthcare outcomes and setting a strong public health precedent.