The Minister for Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, has officially launched the National Sickle Cell Prevention and Management Scale-Up Program in Lira City, during a ceremony held at Lira Regional Referral Hospital.
The program aims to strengthen screening, management, and community mobilization in the fight against Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) across Uganda. As part of the launch, Dr. Aceng also commissioned a wellness center clinic and laboratory that will provide comprehensive screening and treatment for both Sickle Cell Disease and other Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
In a significant boost to the initiative, Uganda received a donation of 20,000 newborn sickle cell test kits and 2,000 doses of hydroxyurea from the Bristol Myers Children’s Hospital in Texas, USA. These contributions will enhance early diagnosis and supportive treatment for patients affected by the disease.
Dr. Aceng noted that Uganda has made remarkable progress in combating Sickle Cell Disease, highlighting the following milestones:
- Becoming the first country in Africa to conduct a nationwide Sickle Cell Disease surveillance program.
- Implementing targeted screening in regions with high prevalence.
- Integrating SCD treatment within the Non-Communicable Diseases Department.
- Institutionalizing SCD services within the national health system.
She extended appreciation to all partners and stakeholders who continue to support and strengthen Uganda’s fight against Sickle Cell Disease, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of all Ugandans.
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