Sickle Cell Disease Continues to Be a Major Health Challenge in Kano, Says Commissioner

Kano State Health Commissioner Abubakar Labaran stated that sickle cell disease continues to pose a major health challenge in the state, particularly among children.

He made the statement on Friday during remarks that marked the global awareness day for sickle cell disease, which was themed “Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Disease.”

He emphasized the necessity of heightened public awareness and early diagnosis.

“Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects many people in our society. It is associated with painful crises, infections, stroke, organ damage, disability, and even early death,” he said.

Labaran described the situation in Kano as alarming, noting that the disease’s prevalence remains high across various age groups.

“In Kano, the prevalence is still high. Among children under one year, it is about 1.5 per cent, while between ages one to five, it can be as high as 35 per cent. This is very serious,” he said.

He explained that the state government has introduced multiple measures aimed at reducing the disease’s burden and improving patients’ lives.

He said a new multidisciplinary sickle cell centre has been established and is ready to be commissioned by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

“We have just completed the establishment of a sickle cell centre, fully equipped and ready. It will be commissioned any moment from now,” he said.

Labaran added that the government has also trained health workers to enhance patient care.

“Last year alone, we trained about 120 healthcare workers to strengthen the management of sickle cell disease,” he said.

He said more than 10,000 patients have already been enrolled in a care programme designed to support vulnerable individuals living with the condition.

“We have enrolled 10,647 patients into care, providing them with free health services. This shows our commitment to ensuring that no patient is left behind,” he said.

The commissioner emphasised the importance of genotype testing, particularly before marriage, as a means to help prevent the disease.

“When two carriers marry, there is a high chance of having a child with sickle cell. That is why premarital screening is very important,” he explained.

He also called for sustained public awareness, noting that accurate information can help reduce new cases.

“If people are well informed, they can make better decisions and help prevent the spread of the disease,” he said.

Labaran further assured that the government will continue to supply essential drugs and improve referral systems to ensure patients receive proper care, especially in rural areas.