New Delhi, June 30 -- Every year, over 3,00,000 infants are born with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) worldwide, a genetic blood disorder which brings serious health complications. The country holds the second-highest burden of the disorder globally. An estimated 20 million Indians are affected by SCD making it a public health concern that needs urgent attention. The condition gains seriousness because of the intensity of the disease - as many as 50-90 per cent of the young patients suffering from it do not even see their fifth birthday.

The government mission

Prioritising the health of tribal communities and recognising SCD as a serious public health challenge, the Government of India launched a National Sickle Cell Elimination Mission (NSCE...