Dr. Eunice Ahmed, a haematologist at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in the Ashanti Region, has urged prospective couples to know their blood genotype before committing to marriage, as part of efforts to reduce the incidence of sickle cell disease (SCD) in Ghana and other affected regions.
Speaking on Ultimate Cup of Tea with Sachiel Ibn Yaccub on World Sickle Cell Day (June 19), Dr. Ahmed explained that sickle cell disease is a genetic condition caused by the inheritance of abnormal hemoglobin genes from both parents.
“Individuals with sickle cell disease have an abnormal type of haemoglobin known as haemoglobin S. Unlike the normal haemoglobin A, haemoglobin S causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped or banana-shaped under certain conditions, making it difficult for them to flow through blood vessels and carry out vital functions,” she said.
Dr. Ahmed stressed that SCD is not caused by chance or environmental factors, but is passed genetically during fertilisation—making genotype screening an essential step before marriage.
She highlighted that sickle cell disease is most prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, with Ghana recording some of the highest numbers globally. According to newborn screening data, about 2% of all newborns in Ghana are diagnosed with the condition, translating to an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 new cases each year.
National figures further suggest that between 15,000 and 20,000 babies are born with sickle cell disease annually, accounting for around 2% of all live births.
This year’s World Sickle Cell Day is being observed under the theme: “Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self-Advocacy.”
Dr. Ahmed’s message forms part of broader efforts to raise awareness and promote informed reproductive choices as a key strategy in reducing the burden of SCD in Ghana and across the region.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Emmanuel Anyam
