Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in the budget that an awareness campaign will be run on mission mode and initiatives will be taken to eliminate sickle cell anaemia by 2047.

This disease affects the shape of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all parts of the body. It is learned that there is no cure for most people with sickle cell anaemia. Treatments can relieve pain and help prevent complications associated with the disease.

Anaemia, episodes of pain, swelling of hands and feet, frequent infections, delayed growth or puberty, vision problems are some of the symptoms of sickle cell.

Sickle cell anemia is largely found in the tribal population of the country.

Speaking to the media Union Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya said, “An important announcement was made in this budget for the Ministry of Health. A government lab will be opened for those doing research in the health sector. The country should be free from sickle cell anemia when it will celebrate 100 years of independence.”

“Sickle cell anaemia is a very common disease in our tribal population. It has been announced in this budget that work will be done in mission mode to eliminate sickle cell anaemia and it will be eliminated by 2047.” he added.