A coalition of women and civil society groups in Niger State has called for compulsory genotype testing for intending couples as part of efforts to reduce the prevalence of sickle cell disease in the country.
The groups, the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Niger State Chapter, and a coalition of civil society organisations, made the call on Monday during a sensitisation campaign to mark the 2026 World Sickle Cell Day.
A Consultant Paediatrician at the General Hospital, Minna, Dr Aisha Musa, described sickle cell disease as a hereditary blood disorder affecting millions of people globally.
“The condition occurs when both parents who are carriers of the sickle cell gene pass it on to their unborn children during pregnancy,” she said.
“Individuals living with the disorder often experience recurrent painful crises, anaemia, infections, and other health complications that can affect their daily lives, sometimes leading to untimely death.
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