**Lagos Begins Statewide Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease Within 72 Hours of Birth**
The Lagos State Government has commenced a statewide newborn screening programme for Sickle Cell Disease, mandating that every baby born in the state must be tested within 48 to 72 hours after delivery.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Alimosho General Hospital, Dr. Akinyele Akinlade, disclosed this during the 2026 World Sickle Cell Day celebration organised by the hospital’s Haematology Department.
According to him, the initiative is designed to ensure early detection of Sickle Cell Disease in newborns, allowing for immediate preventive care for babies identified as being at risk.
He explained that the screening will be conducted using a simple heel-prick test, adding that children who test positive or are identified as at risk will be placed on preventive treatment while confirmatory tests are carried out.
Akinlade described Sickle Cell Disease as an inherited blood disorder that is not contagious, noting that individuals living with the condition are more susceptible to infections and require careful health management.
He advised patients with SCD to maintain proper hydration, avoid stress, and protect themselves from extreme weather conditions, which he identified as common triggers of sickle cell crises. He added that these preventive measures can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of complications.
The Head of the Haematology Department and Convener of the programme, Dr. Olubukola Orolu, said this year’s World Sickle Cell Day theme focused on empowering young people living with the condition and ensuring equity in healthcare access.
She noted that persons living with Sickle Cell Disease are increasingly becoming advocates, professionals, and change-makers, helping to reshape conversations around healthcare delivery and patient-centred care.
Orolu also highlighted the burden of the disease in Nigeria, stating that about 150,000 babies are born annually with Sickle Cell Disease, making the country one of the most affected globally.
She commended the Lagos State Government and the Clinton Health Access Initiative for introducing the newborn screening programme, describing it as a major step toward reducing preventable child deaths linked to the condition.
A participant and SCD warrior, Zainab Borokini, shared her personal experience living with the disease while pursuing her studies in nursing. She encouraged others living with SCD not to give up on their dreams despite health challenges.
The event also featured health education sessions on nutrition, oral hygiene, kidney care, and safe management practices for people living with Sickle Cell Disease.
Participants were advised to avoid unprescribed medications and harmful herbal mixtures, while also undergoing free screenings for Packed Cell Volume and Hepatitis B.
Support for the programme was provided by Fidson Healthcare Plc, which educated participants on the role of amino acids in improving the health and wellbeing of individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease.