By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
Lions Club International, District 404B2 of Nigeria, in collaboration with Mercy International Medical Mission, has launched an initiative to support children living with sickle cell disorder. The initiative was part of their celebration of World Sickle Cell Day, aimed at raising awareness, providing medical support, and donating essential items.
This effort aligns with the district’s objectives for the service year, which include empowering youth, relieving hunger, conducting diabetes screenings, and emphasizing education and enlightenment on sickle cell anemia.
District Governor, Tolulope Ayodeji Senbanjo, emphasized the importance of ongoing education about the disease, stating, “No amount of awareness is enough.” He explained, “We are here to create awareness, conduct campaigns, and perform various screenings and educational lectures for sickle cell warriors and their families on how to better manage crises and maintain health during periods without crises.”
He added that the activities included free dental screenings, eye tests, blood pressure checks, and the distribution of corrective lenses and gift bags for those in need. Senbanjo highlighted the deep support from Mercy International Medical Mission and stressed that better information and adherence to medical advice could significantly reduce birth rates of sickle cell and decrease mortality rates.
The District Governor advised on genetic counseling before marriage and urged sickle cell warriors to avoid triggers such as stress and extreme weather conditions. “Let us commit to stronger awareness, better diagnostics, and accessible treatment. Early intervention is key to managing this condition,” he said.
Senbanjo pointed out that Nigeria bears the highest burden of individuals with sickle cell traits globally. He stressed that sickle cell disorder is entirely preventable through awareness and informed choices, emphasizing the importance of genotype testing to reduce risks and combat discrimination and stigmatization. “Society must be more compassionate and treat persons living with sickle cell disease affectionately,” he urged.
The program aimed to amplify the voices of those affected by SCD, a condition often misunderstood and overlooked. Senbanjo called on affluent individuals to support those living with the disease, emphasizing that the club’s goal is to reduce sickle cell cases and bring joy to affected individuals.
He reiterated that having sickle cell disease is not a death sentence if proper measures are taken and resources are available. “We will continue to seek support for persons living with sickle cell disease.”
Chairperson, Organizing Committee, Kemisola Afuye, shared her personal motivation, revealing that she became passionate about sickle cell awareness after losing her daughter 15 years ago. Afuye now supports sickle cell warriors through her NGO, DafeGirl Sickle Cell Foundation, initiated with the help of former District Governor, Asiwaju Ayobola Samuel.
She emphasized that early detection, awareness, and coordinated care are vital to improving outcomes for those with SCD. She called for Lions International to adopt sickle cell disease as a focus area, advocating for increased advocacy and support.
Dr. Anu Esuola, Founder, Mercy International Medical Missions, USA, said: “Sickle cell is not just a disease of the poor but a global health issue.”
She shared practical health tips, such as maintaining oral hygiene brushing twice daily, eating healthily, and visiting the dentist regularly to prevent infections that could exacerbate health issues. She urged Nigerians to prioritize regular dental check-ups and advocated for more private sector involvement in health awareness campaigns:
“Knowledge is power. With more awareness, we can prevent many diseases and reduce healthcare costs.” She called on the government to enhance infrastructure and expand screening programs, emphasizing that early detection of diseases is crucial for effective management.
“Citizens should take personal responsibility for health by seeking regular medical check-ups and avoiding delays in diagnosis. “The government doesn’t have to bear all the costs; individuals must also invest in their health.”