Sickle Cell Anaemia affects tribal communities in Andhra Pradesh

Kumar's daughter was diagnosed with Sickle Cell Anaemia, a condition that poses health challenges for many tribal communities in Andhra Pradesh. The diagnosis came after an alarming incident at her school in 2016, where she fainted and was found with swollen legs and lumps on her body. Kumar and his family learned about the disorder when they took her to a hospital 120 kilometers away. Since then, Kumar has been deeply worried about his daughter's health. She experiences frequent jaundice, swelling, and joint pain. He explained that even small stresses or changes in temperature can cause complications for her. The family travels to Visakhapatnam for regular health check-ups and has sought advanced care in Hyderabad. Sickle Cell Anaemia is a genetic condition that causes red blood cells to be misshapen. This can lead to severe pain and other serious health issues. In the Alluri Sitharama Raju district, many children suffer from this disorder due to traditional practices of marrying within the same bloodlines, which keeps the genetic mutation alive in the community. The local health department has been actively screening for Sickle Cell Anaemia among schoolchildren and pregnant women. Recent efforts have identified 12,595 carriers of the trait, with 1,372 confirmed cases of the disease. Treatment options vary, with mild cases receiving iron supplements, while severe cases may require blood transfusions. Many families struggle financially to manage the costs of treatment and nutrition. A government aid program provides ₹10,000 for affected families, but many parents find this insufficient. They often seek medical care outside their region, which increases their debt. The impact on children's lives can be profound. Parents report that their children cannot participate fully in activities with peers due to their health issues. Community members call for more awareness and support from the government to combat Sickle Cell Anaemia. Health officials are working to spread information about the disorder, but some families remain unaware of their medical options. Tribal activist Rama Rao Dora emphasizes the need for better healthcare access in remote areas. He urges the government to consider those affected by Sickle Cell Anaemia as special cases, pointing out that timely treatment can prevent serious consequences, including early deaths.