Source: Chioma Obinna

Dr. Monica Hemben Eimunjeze

Webinar Highlights Urgent Need for Action to Improve Lives of People Living with Sickle Cell Disease

As the world marks World Sickle Cell Day, healthcare professionals and advocates have called for multidisciplinary care, early detection, and supportive policies to ease the burdens faced by people living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

During a webinar themed “Transforming Care and Strengthening Communities,” stakeholders examined the current challenges, shared best practices, and recommended action points to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by the condition.

SCD Patients Need to Thrive, Not Just Survive — Aproko Doctor

The virtual event was convened by Dr. Monica Hemben Eimunjeze, founder of D’Bio Wellness and Selfcare Hub, who emphasized the urgency of collective efforts:

“We must unite as healthcare providers, advocates, and communities to ensure no patient is left behind.”

Popular health advocate Dr. Chinonso Fidelis Egemba, widely known as Aproko Doctor, delivered the keynote, calling for:

• Expanded newborn screening
• Establishment of specialised SCD clinics
• Flexible workplace policies for SCD warriors
• Health equity and subsidised care

“Sickle Cell warriors deserve the chance to thrive, not merely survive,” Egemba stated.

Expert Panel Highlights Integrated Care Approaches

The panel included physicians, pharmacists, and wellness experts who underscored the need for a multidisciplinary approach. Key recommendations included:

1. Genetic Counseling & Drug Innovation

Dr. Temilade Ogunnaike-Quaye advocated for genetic screening and highlighted advancements in pharmacological therapies, including newer drug options to improve patient outcomes.

2. Role of Community Pharmacists

Pharmacist Ambrose Ezeh, National Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), stressed the critical role of pharmacists in:

• Medication management
• Patient education
• Psychosocial support

3. Nutritional Therapy

Evelyn Akhigbe Omolegho and Pharmacist Abayomi Onasanya emphasized nutrition as a cornerstone of SCD care, recommending:

Supplements such as L-arginine, folate, vitamin B-complex, and omega-3 fatty acids

Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Hydration

Policy Advocacy and Education Reform

Panelists urged the Nigerian government and institutions to:

• Integrate SCD education into school curricula
• Implement early detection policies
• Support community pharmacies in delivering genetic counseling and pain crisis interventions
• Include SCD treatment in national health insurance schemes to ease the financial burden on families

Organizers and Partners

The event was hosted by D’Bio Wellness and Selfcare Hub in partnership with: