Marking World Sickle Cell Day, the Union Ministry of Health announced significant progress in its fight against Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), revealing that 5.72 crore people across India have been screened for the condition as of June 3, 2025. This milestone marks over 75% of the three-year target set under the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission.
Observed annually on June 19, World Sickle Cell Day raises global awareness about Sickle Cell Disease, a chronic genetic blood disorder that causes severe health complications, including chronic anaemia, painful episodes, organ damage, and reduced life expectancy.
“This World Sickle Cell Day, India is stepping closer to a sickle cell-free future!” the Health Ministry posted on social media platform X.
SCD is especially prevalent in India’s tribal communities, though it affects non-tribal populations as well. According to the 2011 Census, tribals make up 8.6% of the country’s population—around 67.8 million people—making targeted screening and intervention critical.
The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Madhya Pradesh on July 1, 2023, aims to eliminate SCD as a public health problem by 2047.
Key highlights shared by the Health Ministry include:
5.72 crore individuals screened as of June 2025
2.65 crore screenings completed in the past year alone (since April 2024)
2.50 crore sickle cell status cards issued
1.98 lakh people diagnosed with SCD
14 lakh individuals identified as carriers (trait)
All diagnosed patients are receiving appropriate treatment
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda emphasized the day’s importance in raising awareness and fighting stigma.
“This day offers a platform to educate communities, promote early diagnosis, and support ongoing research,” he said, calling for increased compassion and care for those affected.
The Ministry also urged the public to recognize early symptoms and seek timely medical attention. Common warning signs of SCD include:
Frequent fevers
Repeated episodes of pain
Swelling in hands, feet, or joints
Poor growth or delayed weight gain in children
Breathlessness
Jaundice
Enlarged spleen
Blood in urine
Leg ulcers or sores
“Don’t delay—consult a doctor immediately. Early action can make all the difference,” the Ministry advised.
India’s aggressive screening campaign represents a major step toward ensuring a healthier, SCD-free future, especially for vulnerable populations across the country.