World Sickle Cell Day 2026

 Why in News?

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, attended the International Sickle Cell Day commemoration at Omkareshwar on June 19, 2026, reaffirming India’s commitment to eliminating Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) as a public health challenge.

International Sickle Cell Day

• Observed annually on June 19 to raise awareness about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), its prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
• The day promotes early screening, timely healthcare, and public awareness.

What is Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?

• SCD is a genetic blood disorder caused by a mutation in the HBB gene.
• It affects hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.
• The disease causes red blood cells to become crescent (sickle)-shaped instead of their normal round shape.
• These abnormal cells can block blood vessels, leading to:
  • Chronic anemia
  • Severe pain episodes
  • Organ damage and infarction
  • Reduced life expectancy

SCD in India

• India has one of the world’s highest burdens of SCD.
• The disease is particularly prevalent among tribal communities, though it also affects non-tribal populations.
• The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s Tribal Health Expert Committee has identified SCD as one of the ten major health issues disproportionately affecting tribal populations.

Government Initiatives

National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission

• Announced in the Union Budget 2023.
• Launched by Narendra Modi on July 1, 2023, in Madhya Pradesh.
• Objective: Eliminate Sickle Cell Disease as a public health problem in India by 2047 through:
  • Universal screening of vulnerable populations.
  • Genetic counselling.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment.
  • Public awareness and capacity building.

‘Sickle Mitra’ Initiative

• Launched by the Government of Madhya Pradesh on International Sickle Cell Day (2025).
• The initiative aims to strengthen community-level awareness, screening, counselling, and support for individuals affected by SCD, particularly in tribal regions.

Source: PIB

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