AIIMS-Bhubaneswar: A Beacon for Sickle Cell Disease Management

AIIMS-Bhubaneswar is poised to gain Centre of Excellence status in sickle cell disease management and research, Union minister Jual Oram announced Thursday.

Marking World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, Oram emphasized the institute's crucial role in delivering comprehensive care to sickle cell patients in Odisha and neighboring states.

'The Centre of Excellence designation will bolster AIIMS-Bhubaneswar's research and treatment capabilities in sickle cell disease,' Oram noted.

Sickle cell disease comprises a group of inherited blood disorders, medical professionals noted.

The central government targets eradicating sickle cell anemia by 2047, with 5.79 crore screened nationwide, said the Union Tribal Affairs Minister. Among them, 5.55 crore tested negative, 16.38 lakh were identified as carriers, and 2.10 lakh diagnosed with the disease, Oram reported.

To date, AIIMS-Bhubaneswar has treated over 700 sickle cell patients, primarily between the ages of 0–19, officials detailed.

Minister Oram also reviewed the institute's facilities and engaged with sickle cell patients and families, participating in a meeting and scientific session on sickle cell disease.

(With inputs from agencies.)