More than 30 students at Kibamba Secondary School have voluntarily undergone sickle cell trait screening after receiving health education aimed at improving awareness of the inherited blood disorder and dispelling long-standing myths surrounding the condition.
The exercise, conducted on June 19 as part of World Sickle Cell Day commemorations, was organised by the Sickle Cell Disease Patients Community of Tanzania (SCDPCT) in partnership with Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH).
A total of 150 screening kits were made available for students wishing to know their genetic status. Of the 36 students who volunteered for testing, six were found to be carriers of the sickle cell trait (AS), while none was diagnosed with sickle cell disease (SS). The remaining 30 students were found to have normal haemoglobin status (AA).
The awareness campaign targeted Form Two and Form Four students, who received information from medical experts on the causes of sickle cell disease, its impact on patients and the importance of early screening.
Several students said the session had helped them better understand the condition and challenge misconceptions that often lead to discrimination against people living with sickle cell disease.
Among the speakers was sickle cell advocate Julius Joseph, who shared his personal journey of living with the condition and pursuing his career ambitions despite common stereotypes.
He said many people still wrongly believe that individuals with sickle cell disease cannot survive beyond the age of 18, a perception that can discourage patients from pursuing education and professional goals.
“People often assume that a person with sickle cell disease has a limited future. That is not true. I have completed my studies, I work as a Clinical Officer and I continue to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor,” he said.
SCDPCT Information Officer Veronica Mrema called on students to become ambassadors of sickle cell awareness within their families and communities.
She said increasing public understanding of the disease was critical to reducing stigma and encouraging more people to seek screening services.
“We want these students to share the knowledge they have gained today. Accurate information can help communities make informed decisions and support people living with sickle cell disease,” she said.
MNH laboratory scientist Wilson Hape underscored the importance of knowing one’s genetic status before marriage and family planning.
He explained that when two people who both carry the sickle cell trait have children together, the likelihood of having a child with sickle cell disease increases significantly.
Mr Hape also highlighted the challenges faced by patients living with the condition, including recurrent anaemia that often requires blood transfusions.
He urged members of the public to donate blood regularly to support patients and strengthen the national blood supply.
This year’s World Sickle Cell Day is being observed under the theme: “Take Action for Equity: Improve Survival for People Living with Sickle Cell Disease.”
The management of Kibamba Secondary School welcomed the initiative, saying the education and screening services would equip students with knowledge that could guide future life decisions while helping to build greater awareness of sickle cell disease in the wider community.
