THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has sought help and expertise from US based Jefferson University to fight sickle cell anaemia in tribal areas of Kerala. As part of the efforts, the government has decided to organise a major workshop on issues related to sickle cell anemia in the state in which experts from Sydney Carmel Cancer Centre and research wings of Jefferson University will take part.
The representatives of health department will also hold discussions with the experts on the need for putting in place an effective treatment module for dealing with the blood disorder. During her visit to US, the minister held discussions with Grace Lu Yao, vice-chairperson of Carmel Centre Oncology Division of the Thomas Jefferson University and associate director of population science department. Her team is also expected to attend the forthcoming workshop and exchange ideas with health department officials.
Besides, the health department is also planning to organise a training programme for its officials in association with the research wing of Thomas Jefferson University. The government intends to set up a research institute in the land allotted to health department in Mananthvady after getting a detailed report from experts. Sickle cell anemia, a blood disorder, is found in tribal population in the state. According to studies, many people belonging to the tribal and Chetti communities' in Wayanad are having sickle cell anemia. It is found more among in Kattunayakan, Wayanadan Chettis, Kurumas and Adiyas.
Those affected by blood disorders like haemophilia, thalasamia and sickle cell anemia require continuous treatment. The poor patients are finding it extremely difficult to continue with treatment because of financial problems. The government is planning to form a special package for providing assistance to patients affected by these health problems. Last year, it had sanctioned a self employment scheme aimed at providing financial support to patients with sickle cell anemia. The government had set aside Rs 1-crore scheme was aimed at benefiting at least 100 persons.
