Health Ministry Continues to Prioritise Care and Management of Sickle Cell Disease

The Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to prioritise the care and management of sickle cell disease (SCD) in Jamaica, ensuring comprehensive screening and early interventions to improve outcomes for affected individuals. Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder passed from parents to children, affecting approximately one in every 170 persons, while one in 10 carries the sickle cell trait.

In an interview with JIS News, National Sickle Cell Programme Coordinator at the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), Dr. Carol Lord, pointed out that in 2022, the Ministry achieved 99.7 per cent coverage in screening newborns across both public and private healthcare institutions, with 31,806 babies screened for sickle cell disease.

The Ministry built on this success in 2023 by reaching 99.9 per cent coverage, screening 28,898 newborns, giving credence to the early detection and intervention initiative. “The high coverage rates in newborn screening are a testament to our commitment to early identification of sickle cell disease,” Dr. Lord said.

“Early detection allows for timely interventions that significantly reduce the risk of complications and improve the quality of life for affected individuals,” she added. The Programme Coordinator further advised that patients who have been identified as positive for sickle cell disease receive specialised care coordinated by parish coordinators and the Sickle Cell Unit.

“The Ministry’s approach includes a life-course strategy, ensuring that all pregnant women and their newborns are screened, while the general population undergoes testing as clinically indicated,” Dr. Lord said.

She further highlighted that the first five years of life present the highest risk for sickle cell-related complications. “Through screening, vaccination, and early interventions, many deaths can be prevented. The Ministry remains steadfast in its efforts to provide comprehensive care and support,” the Programme Coordinator noted.

Dr. Lord highlighted that in addition to screening, the MOHW offers essential vaccinations, including five doses of pneumococcal vaccine annually.

This vaccine, she explained, would cost more than $100,000 if borne by parents, and protects infants and young children from pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.

The MOHW, in an effort to support healthcare workers in managing children with sickle cell disease, has developed a childcare guidance chart outlining interventions tailored to different stages of the child’s life.

Pregnant women, identified as at increased risk, are screened during antenatal care, ensuring early identification and management of complications during pregnancy and delivery.