The Edo  Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole says the state will sustain medical support for indigent sickle cell patients, while intensifying genotype screening as part of efforts to reduce new cases.

Mr Oshiomhole made the pledge on Thursday in Benin City at an event organised by the Edo Sickle Cell Foundation, in collaboration with the Edicharlson Foundation for Sickle Cell and Alphalight Initiatives to mark the 2026 World Sickle Cell Day.

He said financial assistance remained available for patients unable to afford treatment, adding that applications for support would be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

The commissioner urged residents to embrace routine genotype testing and genetic counselling before marriage, stressing that public enlightenment remained key to preventing avoidable cases of the disorder.

Recall that persons living with sickle cell disorder in the state called for stronger government intervention, improved healthcare delivery and expanded public awareness campaigns.

The President of the Edo Sickle Cell Club, Dr Charles Edigin, said persons living with the condition continued to face significant medical, social and economic challenges.

He called for closer collaboration with government to extend awareness campaigns to rural communities, markets, churches and other public spaces.

A member of the club and lawyer,  Dorothy Osuji, who lost three siblings to sickle cell complications, urged increased funding for treatment, including access to essential drugs, hospital beds and other medical support services.

She also called for broader awareness involving families, religious bodies, communities and the media.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Andrew Iyamu, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery in the state, saying the government remained open to collaboration with stakeholders to improve access to affordable services.

Meanwhile, a sickle cell warrior, Wisdom Anyali, appealed for financial assistance to continue treatment for a chronic leg ulcer, saying his family could no longer sustain the cost of care.

Mr Oshiomhole,  however, directed that the matter be followed up through appropriate official channels, assuring that the case would be reviewed for possible support.

The World Sickle Cell Day is observed annually on June 19 to raise awareness of the condition and promote improved care and support for persons living with it.(NAN)

OSA/CHOM