For many families in Ghana, living with sickle cell disease goes beyond managing painful episodes. It is also a battle against stigma, misconceptions, and limited access to care.
Four-year-old Anatella was diagnosed with sickle cell disease at the age of two. Her father says the journey has been challenging, marked by frequent hospital visits and moments of uncertainty.
Recently discharged after spending more than a week on admission following the weather-triggered crisis, Anatella remains cheerful despite the challenges.
Her father says he is prepared to do everything possible to ensure she receives the care she needs and enjoys a normal childhood.
“She is the only child i have, so I must do everything to make sure she is fine. The crises are not that many. It’s because of the weather. Now, we have been told how to keep her warm. She is very smart, and that’s what motivates me. All I ask is for God to bless me with money, and I will take her to any length to get better,” her father Daniel Danso said.
Sickle cell disease remains a significant public health concern in Ghana. Health experts estimate that about 18,000 babies are born with the condition every year, while nearly eight million Ghanaians carry the sickle cell trait.
Despite years of awareness campaigns, many people remain unaware of their status, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Adwoa Amamoo Mante is a Paediatrician and a fellow in training at the Ridge Hospital.
‘‘There is a myth that the disease is not many in the country, but it’s not true. Two in 100 babies are born with sickle cells in Ghana every day. That should tell us that the disease is common. When you test and you know the status early, it helps with proper management of the disease. Now, there is a policy that every child from 6 months must be checked. And that is the way to go in ensuring we pick the cases early, ” she explained.
Although advances in treatment have helped reduce the frequency and severity of sickle cell crises, access to essential medications and specialized care remains a challenge in many parts of the country. she also warns that the recent weather pattern is a trigger for sickle cell crisis.
‘‘In ghana, we have advanced in care, but there are still gaps. i have a client who has to come all the way from the volta region to pick up her medications. Which shouldn’t be. We are advocating that policy makers make the drugs available at every district hospital to ensure easy access to all patients who need it. Also, during this time, it is advisable for them to be kept in warm clothing and also prevented from getting malaria.” She said
For families like Anatella’s, the hope is that increased awareness, early diagnosis, and improved healthcare services will help transform the lives of thousands living with the condition.
