Kenya steps up efforts to improve sickle cell care
Duale said the government’s response must go beyond keeping people with sickle cell disease alive. The post Kenya steps up efforts to improve sickle cell care appeared first on KBC Digital .
Kenya is intensifying its efforts to enhance care for individuals affected by sickle cell disease. The government is striving for increased accessibility to screening, treatment, and specialized care. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale emphasized that sickle cell disease should not dictate the quality or duration of a child's life, irrespective of their birthplace or healthcare accessibility.
At the 3rd Global Sickle Cell Disease Conference, Duale advocated for universal screening of infants to ensure early identification of the condition and timely initiation of treatment and care. The Ministry of Health estimates that approximately 250,000 Kenyans are living with sickle cell disease, with around 14,000 children born with the condition annually in the country.
To promote early diagnosis and enhance patient outcomes, Kenya is expanding infant screening initiatives. The government is also bolstering comprehensive care for diagnosed patients by training health workers to improve early detection and continuity of care. Efforts are underway to improve access to treatment and referral services for patients requiring specialized medical attention.
Duale stressed that the government's response must extend beyond merely keeping patients with sickle cell disease alive. He emphasized that Kenya's approach should aim to help those living with the condition lead healthy and productive lives, moving beyond mere survival to ensuring patients can thrive.
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