LANGO! Combating Sickle cell , Youth call to Embrace Premarital Screening

Lira, Uganda: Stakeholders in the Lango sub-region have urged young couples to undergo sickle cell disease testing prior to formalizing their marriages, aiming to mitigate the rising incidence of the disease in the area.

 Lango sub-region currently ranks among the highest in Uganda for sickle cell cases, with Alebtong District leading in the region and Uganda.

During a media briefing on Wednesday at ST Lira Hotel in Lira City, ahead of the Sickle Cell Uhuru event scheduled for October 5, 2024, Assistant RCC, Lira, Bonny F Okello Alele, chairperson of the organizing committee, called on students, young couples, and religious institutions to promote premarital sickle cell screening. 

The committee announced that the Uhuru Sickle Cell Run aims to raise funds for an HB electrophoresis machine, a crucial tool for accurate and efficient diagnosis of sickle cell disease at Lira Regional Hospital and Alebtong H/C IV. The availability of such diagnostic technology is vital for addressing the significant public health challenge posed by sickle cell disease in the nation.

Alebtong District has reported a concerning prevalence rate of 23.8 percent, the highest in Uganda. Alele commended various stakeholders for their support of this initiative, which seeks to enhance community health in Lango.

He emphasized the importance of premarital sickle cell screening, encouraging individuals to understand their health status to help reduce the disease's impact. 

He further comfirmed the participation of different stakeholders during the event.

SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, the Police PRO for North Kyoga Region, assured participants of comprehensive security measures, confirming that police presence will be ensured for the event's safety.

Kibwota Patrick, a representative of Stanbic Bank, highlighted the bank's dedication to community support, announcing a donation of Shs 10 million and encouraging other corporate entities to contribute.

Meanwhile, Daniel Odur Roy, the executive director of the Sicklecell Foundation emphasized the need for heightened awareness and initiatives to address this health issue in Lango , specifically on Sicklecell diseases. 

He resealed several people are silently dieing of the disease without seeking healthcare services. 

The Minister of Education and Sports, Mama Jent Museveni, is anticipated to serve as the chief guest at the event.