Last evening, the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge was illuminated in recognition of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, observed under the theme: “Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Disease.”
A release from the Ministry of Health said that this theme highlights the persistent disparities in access to diagnosis, treatment, and quality care for persons living with sickle cell disease around the world.
In Guyana, increased testing through the Child Universal Healthcare Voucher Programme has led to the identification of many new cases each month. Currently, the Paediatric Clinic cares for more than 150 children living with this debilitating condition, while many others remain undiagnosed, the release added.
If there is a known family history of sickle cell disease, individuals are encouraged to get tested, the ministry said. Early diagnosis and timely intervention can help prevent long term complications, improve quality of life, and extend life expectancy.
“Together, through awareness, testing, and equitable access to care, we can close the survival gap and improve outcomes for those living with sickle cell disease”, the release added.
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