Categories: Current AffairsSchemes

PM Modi launches National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the National Sickle Cell Anemia Eradication Mission(NSCAEM) 2047 in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh. The mission aims to tackle the challenges posed by sickle cell disease, particularly among the tribal population in India. PM Modi also unveiled a portal and released guidelines for disease management, along with different monitoring modules.

Comprehensive Approach to Combat Sickle Cell Disease

The NSCAEM takes a comprehensive approach to tackle sickle cell disease, recognizing its impact on not just patients but also their families. The mission combines screening and awareness strategies to ensure early detection and treatment while promoting education about the disease. By identifying individuals with sickle cell trait, the mission aims to prevent the unintentional transfer of the disease to the next generation. Over the course of three years, an ambitious screening initiative aims to examine approximately 7.0 crore individuals who are under 40 years old.

Distribution of Ayushman Cards and PVC Ayushman Bharat Cards

PM Modi initiated the distribution of over 3 crore digital Ayushman cards nationwide and 1 crore PVC Ayushman Bharat cards specifically in Madhya Pradesh. These cards provide beneficiaries with access to health insurance coverage worth ₹5 lakh, ensuring affordable and quality medical treatment. Ayushman Card is a guarantee backed by his government, offering financial security for healthcare expenses.

About Sickle cell disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD), also known as sickle cell anemia, is a genetic blood disorder that affects the structure and function of red blood cells. It is an inherited condition caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin gene, which is responsible for producing the protein that carries oxygen in the red blood cells. This disorder results in a distressing systemic condition marked by persistent anemia, episodes of intense pain, organ infarction, chronic organ impairment, and a considerable decrease in life expectancy.

Efforts to Eradicate Sickle Cell Anemia by 2047

The National Sickle Cell Anemia Eradication Mission (NSCAEM) seeks to address the urgent health challenges posed by sickle cell disease by encompassing disease management guidelines & monitoring modules. The distribution of Ayushman cards, aims to alleviate the healthcare challenges faced by the tribal population
Nearly half of the global sickle cell disease cases are concentrated in India which predominantly affects the tribal population in India. With the launch of this mission, the government aims to eliminate sickle cell anemia from the country by 2047, adopting a mission mode approach.