By Isaiah Eka
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Akwa Ibom residents to ensure they are knowledgeable about their genotypes before marriage to avoid incidents of sickle cell disease in the state.
The Akwa Ibom Director of NOA, Mr Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, gave the advice while briefing newsmen in Uyo on Thursday to mark Sickle Cell Day.
Mkpoutom urged the citizens to have knowledge of their genotypes before marriage and avoid high risk unions such as AS/AS, AS/SS and SS/SS.
“Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder characterised by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, known as hemoglobin S (HbS).
“This disease affects the shape of the red blood cells, turning them into a crescent or “sickle” shape, which can lead to various health complications.
“These abnormally shaped cells are less flexible and can obstruct blood flow in small vessels, leading to tissue ischemia and pain, known as sickle cell crisis,” Mkpoutom said.
He urged parents, teachers and caregivers to break the silence and discuss genotypes openly in homes, faith centers and schools.
According to him, with knowledge, compassion and early care we can wage and win the war against sickle cell.
Mkpoutom directed the Community Mobilisation Officers (COMOs)in the 31 LGAs to ensure that the message got to the grassroots as quickly as possible.
In her remarks, Mrs Nsidibe Udoette, Head, Department of Community Safety, Awareness and Compliance, NOA, Akwa Ibom Directorate said that individuals with sickle cell disease could leave fulfilling lives with appropriate management, support and healthy lifestyle modifications.
She added that sickle cell disease is a complex, lifelong condition that requires ongoing care and management. NAN
