Maharashtra: 10 lakh to be screened for anaemia

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The state government has a target from the Union health ministry regarding screening for anaemia. In 2023, the state health department will screen around 10 lakh people for sickle cell anaemia. A senior official from the state health department said there are 17 active cases of sickle cell anaemia and 2 lakh people are carriers of the disease. Most of them are from Vidharbha, and tribal areas are the most affected.

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The first scientist to find sickle cell disorder among tribals of north Maharashtra in 1972 Padmashree Prof Sudam Laxman Kate, who is also known for his pioneering work in the field of sickle cell anaemia, said, "I feel very positive about this move of the government as it is a much-needed step in the right direction. The programme will strengthen laboratory capacity, surveillance, and healthcare for such patients."