World Sickle Cell Awareness Day (WSCD) is observed on June 19 th each year to raise awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD) and its impact on individuals, families and communities worldwide. Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disease which affects the whole life of the affected patient. It is more common in the tribal population of India but occurs in non-tribals too. This year the theme for WSCD 2024: “Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally”. Dr. Parikipandla Sridevi, Convenor of the program and Principal Investigator for national task force project on sickle cell disease funded by SHI-Division of Indian Council for Medical Research, Govt. of India, welcomed the guests and introduced the theme of the program. The Chief-Guests of the day Dr. Padmaleela, Principal, Govt Medical college, and Dr. Appalanaidu, chief superintendent of Govt. hospital, Vizianagaram addressed and enlightened the gathering with their knowledge and experience on SCD. Dr. Ramesh Uppada, Consultant hematologist from HCG cancer care, Visakhapatnam gave a key note speech. The presence of sickle cell patients from Araku valley who spoke about their experiences, coping strategies and battling with disease made a significant difference among the audience. During his presidential remarks Prof. T.V. Kattimani, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, CTUAP highlighted the importance of capacity building and strengthening of the Govt. health care system for SCD care among tribal and rural populations. He also appreciated the efforts of Govt. of India for launching Sickle cell mission in 2021 for better SCD screening and care among Indian populations and emphasized that it should be replicated globally.
