2025 Theme: “Tell it Loud!”
World Sickle Cell Day (WSCD) is commemorated every year on June 19 to raise global awareness of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), amplify the voices of those affected, and call for action on better care, research, and policies.
This year’s theme, “Tell it Loud!”, encourages open dialogue, bold advocacy, and collective support to break the silence and stigma surrounding SCD.
🩸 What is Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?
SCD is a hereditary blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells. Instead of being round and flexible, the red blood cells in SCD are sickle or crescent-shaped, making it harder for them to pass through small blood vessels, leading to blockages, pain, and organ damage.
Common Symptoms:
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Chronic anemia
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Fatigue
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Severe pain episodes (pain crises)
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Swelling in hands and feet
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Frequent infections
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Delayed growth and puberty
🔗 Sources: Mayo Clinic, PMC article
🧬 Genetics and Inheritance of SCD
SCD is inherited from both parents. A child must receive the sickle cell gene (HbS) from both parents to have the disease. If they inherit it from one parent, they are a carrier (have sickle cell trait) but usually do not show symptoms.
🧪 SCD can be detected through newborn screening or genetic testing.
📊 [SCD Inheritance Pattern – Image Credit: parentsguidecordblood.org]
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is SCD contagious?
A: No. It is a genetic condition, not infectious.
Q: Can people with SCD live long lives?
A: Yes! With proper care, many live well into adulthood.
Q: Is there a cure?
A: Stem cell or bone marrow transplants can offer a cure but are not yet widely available.
Q: Can someone with sickle cell trait have symptoms?
A: Usually no, but some may experience complications under extreme conditions like high altitude or dehydration.
💊 Treatment & Management
While there’s no universal cure, effective management helps individuals lead fulfilling lives.
Current treatments include:
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Hydroxyurea to reduce pain crises
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Regular blood transfusions
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Pain management & hydration therapy
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Vaccinations & antibiotics to prevent infections
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Emerging options like gene therapy & stem cell transplants
🙌 Our Role in Combating SCD
🧍 Individuals
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Get tested and know your sickle cell status
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Stay informed and support affected individuals
💍 Spouses & Partners
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Consider genetic counseling before marriage or having children
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Discuss inherited conditions openly
🏥 Healthcare Organizations
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Ensure access to screening, early diagnosis, and affordable care
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Train professionals on empathetic SCD management
🏛️ Government & NGOs
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Implement nationwide newborn screening
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Fund research, treatment, and awareness campaigns
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Create policies protecting people with chronic illnesses
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Advocate and fight stigma in communities
🇹🇿 SCD in Tanzania: The Local Landscape
🔬 Epidemiology & Healthcare
Tanzania has one of the highest global incidences of SCD, with over 11,000 children born annually with the disease.
In Dar es Salaam alone, SCD accounts for ~7% of under-five deaths (source: Frontiers in Pediatrics).
Dedicated clinics are located at:
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Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) – Dar es Salaam
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Bugando Medical Centre – Mwanza
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Benjamin Mkapa Hospital – Dodoma
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Zanzibar SCD Clinic
🧪 Government & Research
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MUHAS, under Prof. Julie Makani, leads the largest SCD research cohort in Tanzania (~5,500 patients).
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Sickle Cell Foundation of Tanzania supports education, advocacy, and care (tumainisicklecell.org)
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Newborn screening pilot programs active in Dar es Salaam (Temeke, Mbagala)
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Ministry of Health is establishing a National Sickle Cell Programme, including regional centers and national registries
📢 NGOs & Advocacy
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TASIWA (Tanzania Sickle Cell Warriors) – Mwanza-based group focusing on outreach, counseling, and awareness
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TSDA (Tanzania Sickle Cell Disease Alliance) – National efforts in education and policy advocacy
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SCD Patients Community of Tanzania – Peer support, treatment access, and psychosocial services
🗣️ Join the Movement: #WSCD2025
Let’s “Tell it Loud” – raise our voices, share knowledge, support families, and demand better care for those living with Sickle Cell Disease. Whether you’re an individual, healthcare worker, or policymaker, your role matters.
📣 Together, we can change the narrative around SCD – for Tanzania, for Africa, and for the world.
🔗 References:
Contents by
Rachel Mtama
Communication Team Intern, THGO