AIIMS Mangalagiri Observes World Sickle Cell Day with Awareness Rally

To commemorate World Sickle Cell Day on June 19, 2025, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh, organized an awareness rally in partnership with the Departments of Health and Family Welfare and Tribal Welfare. The event brought together students, tribal members, and healthcare professionals in a unified call to eliminate sickle cell disease, particularly in vulnerable tribal communities.

Why in News?

This initiative is part of the broader national strategy to combat sickle cell disease, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It reflects a growing commitment at both the state and institutional levels to raise awareness, educate communities, and strengthen healthcare outreach, especially among tribal populations who are most affected by this inherited disorder.

Key Objectives of the Rally

• Raise public awareness on sickle cell disease.
• Promote solidarity in fighting the genetic disorder.
• Reaffirm government and institutional commitment to eradicate the disease by 2047.

Key Participants

• M. Mallikarjuna Nayak, Secretary to the Government (Social Welfare and Tribal Welfare) – Chief Guest
• Dr. Saraswati, Additional Director, Tribal Welfare
• Dr. Vijayalakshmi, Guntur District Medical and Health Officer
• Ranga Rao, District Coordinator of Hospital Services
• Dr. Shreemanta Kumar Dash, Incharge Director, AIIMS-Mangalagiri
• Students, tribal community members, and healthcare professionals

Background on Sickle Cell Disease

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that leads to abnormal hemoglobin formation.
• Causes chronic pain, anemia, infections, and complications such as stroke.
• Prevalent among tribal communities in India.
• The Indian government launched a National Sickle Cell Elimination Mission targeting eradication by 2047.

Significance

• Aligns with India’s vision for equitable healthcare.
• Reinforces the role of public engagement and awareness campaigns in combating inherited disorders.
• Highlights AIIMS’s proactive role in community health outreach.