The government is committed to ensuring that Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) no longer pose public health threat, so that those affected by the disease can live healthy and fulfilling lives. The Minister of Health, Dr Bernard Oko Boye, said "the National Strategy for Sickle Cell Disease represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to address SCD in Ghana." Dr Boye, whose speech was read on his behalf by Dr Mavis Sakyi, the Acting Head of Health Promotion, said the ministry acknowledge that SCD was not just a medical condition, but a life-long experience that affected millions of people globally.
He said "we strongly hold fast the belief that empowerment begins with education. By enhancing awareness about SCD. We equip individuals with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health, their progeny and the choice of their spouse.
" The minister made the call at the first ever national conference on the prevention of SCD, organised by SICCA to commemorate the World Sickle Cell Day, on the theme; 'United for Health: Empowering Knowledge and Action Against Sickle Cell Disease,' in Accra. Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 22, 2008, World Sickle Cell Day, is observed annually on June 19, to raise awareness by educating the public about SCD, its symptoms and the challenges faced by patients. The theme for this year's observation 'Hope through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally,' underscored the importance of unity, col.
