New book on sickle cell disease urges Nigerians to prioritise genotype testing, public awareness
Health advocates and authors in Nigeria are calling for increased public education and mandatory genotype testing to combat the high prevalence of sickle cell disease. The initiative coincides with the launch of a new book aimed at reducing stigma and improving reproductive health awareness.
Why it matters
Nigeria faces the world's highest burden of sickle cell disease, making public health education and informed reproductive choices critical for long-term population health.
Stakeholders have called for stronger public education, compulsory genotype awareness and better support for people living with sickle cell disease, warning that Nigeria will continue to record thousands of preventable cases unless more people make informed decisions before marriage.
The call was made on Wednesday in Abuja at the launch of ‘Sickle Cell Anaemia: The Audacity of Hope’, a new book by Funmilayo Braithwaite, with medical contributions from Abayomi Adegbite and Moji Aiyemo.
The publication, Mrs Braithwaite’s 11th book, combines storytelling, medical explanations and advocacy to raise awareness about sickle cell disease, combat stigma and encourage informed reproductive decisions.
The event brought together health professionals, librarians, writers, faith leaders and advocates, who said poor understanding of genotype compatibility continues to drive Nigeria’s high burden of sickle cell disease despite improvements in treatment.
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