On World Sickle Cell Day, we at Isonye Foundation join the global call to raise awareness, fight stigma, and advocate for better care and inclusion for everyone living with this condition.
What Is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells. Instead of moving freely through the bloodstream, sickle-shaped cells stick together, block blood flow, and break down prematurely. This causes intense pain, fatigue, organ damage, and a high risk of early death, especially in children.
Why It Matters to Nigeria
Nigeria has the highest number of SCD cases in the world.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO):
Over 150,000 Nigerian babies are born with sickle cell disease every year.
More than 50% of these children will not reach age five without timely diagnosis and medical support.
An estimated 25% of Nigerians carry the sickle cell trait (AS genotype), making it one of the most pressing hereditary health issues in West Africa.
This is not just a statistic. It is a national emergency and a public health priority that affects families, communities, and our future workforce.
Living With Sickle Cell in Nigeria: The Reality
For many warriors, SCD is a life of:
Frequent hospital visits due to crises (pain episodes)
Disruption of education and employment
High cost of medication and care
Social stigma and rejection
Emotional and physical fatigue
“I’ve had to smile through pain. I’ve lost friends to sickle cell. But I’m still here, and I want people to know we’re not weak — we’re warriors.”
— Testimony from a young adult with SCD in Abuja
What We Believe at Isonye Foundation
At Isonye Foundation, we are committed to inclusive health, where no condition, disability, or difference becomes a barrier to dignity, opportunity, or care. We believe:
~ Everyone should know their genotype before marriage
~ Every child should have early diagnosis and access to treatment
~ People with SCD should be treated with respect and support, not pity or fear
~ Health policies should provide affordable medication and pain management tools for warriors
Hope Through Action
Today, more people with SCD are living into adulthood, graduating from universities, starting families, and advocating for change. This progress is possible because of:
Public education campaigns
Advocacy for health system reform
Breakthroughs in treatment and support
Courageous individuals sharing their stories
But more still needs to be done — especially in rural areas, low-income communities, and among policymakers.
What You Can Do
🧬 Know your genotype. Encourage family, friends, and communities to get tested.
📢 Speak up against stigma. Understand that sickle cell is inherited, not contagious.
💰 Support warriors. Donate, mentor, volunteer, or sponsor care for someone living with SCD.
🏛️ Push for health equity. Demand better funding, research, and national coverage for SCD treatment.
A Final Word to Warriors
To everyone living with SCD:
You are more than your condition.
You are brave. You are brilliant. You are seen.
You are not alone — and we will keep standing with you.
🔗 Together, let’s break the silence, fight the stigma, and build a Nigeria where health is a right, not a privilege.
#WorldSickleCellDay #SCDinNigeria #IsonyeFoundation #InclusiveHealth #DisabilityAwareness #SickleCellWarriors #KnowYourGenotype #NigeriaForAll #HealthEquity #StopTheStigma #HumanRightsInHealth
