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🇳🇬 Nigeria /Health & Science

Lagos Begins Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease

From The Punch · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified New plan
  • The Lagos State Government has initiated a statewide screening of all newborn babies for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).
  • The screening, conducted via a heel-prick test within 48-72 hours of birth, aims for early detection and preventive care for at-risk infants.
  • Nigeria has one of the highest SCD burdens globally, with approximately 150,000 babies born annually with the condition.

The Lagos State Government has launched a comprehensive initiative to screen all newborn babies for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), aiming for early detection and intervention. Every child born in the state will undergo testing within 48 to 72 hours after birth through a simple heel-prick test.

Every newborn will be screened for Sickle Cell Disease within 48 to 72 hours after birth. Babies identified as being at risk will immediately be placed on preventive care while awaiting confirmatory testing.

— Dr Akinyele AkinladeManaging Director and Chief Executive Officer of Alimosho General Hospital, explaining the new newborn screening process.

Dr. Akinyele Akinlade, Managing Director and CEO of Alimosho General Hospital, explained that babies identified as being at risk will immediately receive preventive care while awaiting confirmatory testing. He described SCD as a non-contagious inherited blood disorder that makes affected individuals more vulnerable to infections. Preventive measures such as staying hydrated, avoiding stress, and protecting against extreme weather can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of SCD crises.

During the recent 2026 World Sickle Cell Day celebration, Dr. Olubukola Orolu, Head of the Haematology Department, highlighted the theme "Young Voices Rising for Sickle Cell Disease – Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Disease." She noted the growing advocacy by young people living with SCD, who are increasingly becoming leaders and change-makers, influencing conversations around healthcare access and patient-centered treatment. Orolu called for equitable access to quality healthcare and improved survival opportunities for all individuals with SCD.

These preventive measures can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of crises.

— Dr Akinyele AkinladeDr. Akinlade discussing the importance of preventive measures for individuals with Sickle Cell Disease.

Nigeria faces a significant burden of SCD, with an estimated 150,000 babies born annually with the condition, placing it among the countries with the highest global prevalence. The Lagos State Government's newborn screening program, supported by the Clinton Health Access Initiative, is considered a major step toward reducing childhood mortality linked to the disease. SCD warriors like student nurse Zainab Borokini shared their experiences, encouraging others not to let the condition deter their dreams.

Don’t let sickle cell pu

— Zainab BorokiniAn SCD warrior and student nurse, encouraging others living with the condition.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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