The Head of the Department of Pediatrics at the 37 Military Hospital, Dr. Emmanuel Parbie Abbeyquaye, has urged Ghanaians to take genetic counseling seriously and encourage prospective couples to understand their sickle cell status before making the decision to settle down.
Speaking during the 20th-anniversary symposium of the Pediatric Sickle Cell Unit at the 37 Military Hospital, Dr. Abbeyquaye emphasized the critical importance of pre-marital genetic testing as a proactive step in the fight against Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).
Dr. Abbeyquaye highlighted that approximately 18,000 babies are born annually in Ghana with sickle cell disease, a genetic disorder that affects hemoglobin production, causing red blood cells to become abnormally shaped and break down. The condition leads to painful episodes and a variety of other health complications that can significantly impact the quality of life of those affected.
“One of the keyways we can prevent the spread of sickle cell disease is through early detection. We encourage couples to seek genetic counseling before marriage to understand their risk and ensure they are making informed decisions for their future children,” Dr. Abbeyquaye said.
Despite advances in medical science, including gene therapy and bone marrow transplants that offer potential cures for sickle cell disease, Dr. Abbeyquaye stressed the need for greater awareness and education on the importance of early testing.
He revealed that, in Ghana, many babies with sickle cell disease go undiagnosed until they are older, often not until they are four years old and experience their first pain crisis. This delay in diagnosis, he explained, can result in prolonged suffering and complications.
“We can eliminate sickle cell disease in Ghana if every baby born is tested for it at birth,” he said. “However, the testing is often not done until the child grows and begins showing symptoms, which is too late to prevent the health challenges associated with the disease.”
About the disease
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder that primarily affects individuals of African descent. It is caused by mutations in the gene that makes hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood. This results in the production of sickle-shaped red blood cells, which can block blood flow and lead to pain crises, organ damage, and increased risk of infections.
Globally, it is estimated that around 20 million people are living with sickle cell disease, making it the most common inherited blood disorder in the world. In Ghana, it remains a major public health concern, affecting thousands of families every year.
Dr. Abbeyquaye’s call to action for genetic counseling and early testing is a crucial step in reducing the incidence of SCD. He emphasized that with proper genetic screening, prospective parents can determine whether they are carriers of the sickle cell trait and take steps to minimize the risk of having a child with the disease.
As part of the ongoing efforts to address sickle cell disease in Ghana, the 37 Military Hospital’s Pediatric Sickle Cell Unit continues to provide specialized care and support for children living with the condition. The unit, which has been a pioneer in sickle cell management in the country, also provides educational resources to help families manage the disease and improve the quality of life for affected children.
Dr. Abbeyquaye urged Ghanaians to embrace genetic counseling as part of the broader effort to combat sickle cell disease. “The power to reduce the burden of sickle cell disease lies in our hands. With early testing, education, and responsible decision-making, we can ensure healthier futures for our children and our nation,” he said.
Key Facts About Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in Ghana and Worldwide:
- Estimated 18,000 babies born annually in Ghana with SCD.
- Sickle Cell Disease is most often undiagnosed until the child is 4 years old.
- Sickle Cell Disease affects approximately 20 million people globally, with the highest prevalence in Africa.
- Gene therapy and bone marrow transplants offer potential cures, but early diagnosis remains critical.
- Genetic counseling before marriage can reduce the risk of having children with SCD.
By encouraging early diagnosis and responsible family planning, Dr. Abbeyquaye believes Ghana can make significant strides in reducing the incidence of sickle cell disease and improving the lives of those affected.
