World Sickle Cell Awareness Day - 19 June 2024

Tags: Important Days

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is observed annually on June 19th to spotlight the impact of sickle cell disease (SCD) globally.

An Overview of the News

• It aims to increase understanding and awareness of SCD's effects on individuals, families, and communities worldwide.

Characteristics of Sickle Cell Disease

• Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder characterized by abnormally shaped red blood cells, often taking on a crescent or sickle shape.

• These irregularly shaped cells can obstruct blood vessels, leading to various health complications such as organ damage, anemia, and heightened susceptibility to infections.

Theme for World Sickle Cell Disease Day 2024

• The theme for 2024 is "Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally."

• This theme underscores the collective effort to foster awareness, diminish stigma, and promote advancements in care for individuals affected by sickle cell disease worldwide.

Objectives and Impact

• The primary goal is to unite voices globally, advocating for improved understanding and support for those living with sickle cell disease.

• Efforts focus on driving meaningful changes in healthcare practices and policies to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families affected by this condition.

History of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day:

• It originated from a resolution passed by the United Nations General Assembly on 22 December 2008.

• The resolution recognized sickle cell disease as a global health concern.

• The disease mainly affects people of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and South Asian origin.