FoSCel foundation calls for end to stigma and stereotyping against people living with sickle cell disease
The Founder of the Focus on Sickle Cell Foundation (FoSCel), Amos Andoh, has called for a fundamental change in the way Ghana educates young people about sickle cell disease, arguing that greater emphasis must be placed on confronting stigma, misinformation and stereotyping alongside medical treatment.
Amos Andoh, the founder of the Focus on Sickle Cell Foundation (FoSCel), has called for a shift in how Ghana educates young people about sickle cell disease. Mr Andoh believes that efforts to combat stigma, misinformation, and stereotyping must be integrated with medical treatment. Speaking at a press conference in Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, he argued that schools should play a crucial role in ensuring that children and young people understand the condition before they reach adulthood.
FoSCel's advocacy is driven by the belief that education about sickle cell disease should begin early, rather than waiting until young people form relationships and consider marriage. Mr Andoh stressed that misinformation about the condition can lead to social isolation and discrimination, including misconceptions about the capabilities of those living with the disease.
He urged the public not to treat people with sickle cell disease as incapable of contributing to society, both personally and professionally. The Foundation aims to incorporate sickle cell education into Ghana's formal education system, providing accurate, age-appropriate information to young people while they are still in school.
This approach is based on moving beyond awareness campaigns to knowledge, informed decision-making, and healthier communities.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
