Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) has been recognized as a global public health issue; it affects millions of people, including children, throughout the world. More than 300.000 children are born each year with SCD and most of them in African countries.

Early diagnosis improves the survival trends thanks to the introduction of preventive measures including penicillin prophylaxis, vaccinations as well as family education on SCD management.

These strategies, when integrated in public health programs for screening and follow‐up care, can reduce the early mortality associated with the disease and improve the patient’s quality of life.

By contrast, the lack of health resources and training among healthcare workers and the lack of general public awareness contribute to the rates of early mortality of patients in low‐income countries where a lot of children born with SCD are undiagnosed and die before 5 years old.

Fondazione Gianni Benzi, in collaboration with partners from Nigeria, Kenya and Lebanon, is working on several activities focused on SCD.

We are committed in initiatives, tailored on the target audience, to increase the awareness on the disease in Nigeria, such as guidebooks and other information materials.

Moreover, the Foundation is collaborating with Young Persons Advisory Groups (KIDS BARI and KIDS ALBANIA) that provides their relevant contribution for the performance of research initiatives on SCD tailored for children.

You can support our activities on this life-threatening disease with a voluntary contribution by visiting the DONATE NOW section of our website.

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