In Chamarajanagar district, a significant tribal area, 40 tribal individuals have tested positive for sickle cell disease (SCD) out of 65 suspected cases. This finding was part of a screening initiative conducted under the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM) targeting the Soliga, Betta Kuruba, Jenu Kuruba, and Yerava tribal communities.
District Commissioner Shilpa Nag reported that 14,470 members from these tribes were screened, and treatment for the confirmed cases has commenced. Additionally, all patients will be issued disability cards to facilitate access to support and monetary assistance.
The health department has expanded its screening efforts to include the remaining Scheduled Tribe population, with around 17,000 individuals already tested using an absorbance spectroscopy-based method. Out of 283 non-primitive Scheduled Tribe members suspected of having the disease, only two were confirmed after further testing.
Dr. S. Chidambara, the district health officer, emphasized that all services, including screening, treatment, and medications, are provided free of charge under the NSCAEM, ensuring that affected individuals receive the necessary care.
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