In Chhattisgarh, sickle cell will now be identified by grassroots health workers from village to village. The villagers will no longer have to go to a distant hospital and get tested. Health Minister TS Singhdev launched the pilot project being implemented in the state in this regard. Health workers will be trained by experts of the Institute of Immuno-Hematology at ICMR’s Mumbai-based institute for this project being launched in five districts of Durg, Sarguja, Dantewada, Korba and Mahasamund districts. The point of test technique used for this test is certified by international and national scientific institutions.
By using this new technique, sickle cell disease can be confirmed at the village level and also in primary health centers. This will reduce mortality from sicklecell disease. Timely examination of pregnant women will also help in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality. Presently the latest medicines for sickle cell are available so that the patient can lead a normal life.
It may be noted that in the last two rains by the Health Department, a large-scale screening has been done to identify suspicious cases of sicklesail. 1.03 lakh people have been screened and are being treated at the screening.
