By: Tatumwa Desmond Benjamin
In the heart of Iganga Municipality, where quality healthcare meets compassion, Imperial Hospital Iganga has become a source of hope for the community for three years. With a mission to make quality healthcare accessible for all is not a mere slogan but a commitment. One aspect of our dedication is our emphasis on sickle cell care.
Every year on June 19th, the worlds commemorate the world sickle cell day. specifically On June 19, 2022, World Sickle Cell Awareness Day reminded the world of the urgency of this issue with its theme, “shine the light on Sickle cell.” This was a global call to action, and Imperial Hospital Iganga heeds it with a genuine purpose.
The statistics are revealing and concerning. According to the Ministry of Health, about 20,000 children are born with sickle cell annually in the country. In the Busoga sub-region alone, it’s estimated that about 5,000 children are born with Sickle Cell Disease annually.
Sickle Cell Disease, or SCD, is more than a medical concern; it’s a matter of life and death, particularly for children under the age of five. SCD substantially contributes to childhood mortality, hindering progress toward achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on good health and well-being.
Imperial Hospital Iganga recognizes that SCD is a silent crisis, often overlooked. The disease places a heavy burden on families and the healthcare system. Its impact is not only physical but also emotional and economic. Fathers and even the healthcare system, at times, shy away from the challenge, leaving mothers to carry the weight.
Imperial Hospital Iganga believes that awareness and action are the keys to change this narrative. Our intentional focus on SCD aligns with the global call to “shine the light.
However, the road to effective SCD care is not without its obstacles. health facilities, are grapple with challenges, including a lack of infrastructure, human resources, and essential supplies. Timely access to vital drugs, laboratories, and treatment is vital, yet often a struggle.
Imperial Hospital Iganga’s commitment to sickle cell care goes beyond the walls. we advocate for more significant attention from the government and partners.
we recognize that a change in perception and awareness is essential. It’s a battle against myths and misconceptions, and we stand firmly in the fight. we believe in education, support, and early intervention.
Our emphasis on SCD is not just a medical initiative; it’s a commitment to the well-being and future of the community. It’s a pledge to shine the light on Sickle Cell and make a difference, one patient, one family, and one community at a time.
