Report By: Ishmael Barfi
Accra, Ghana – The Focus on Sickle Cell Foundation (FoSCel) has partnered with the National Health Insurance (NHI) in Ghana’s Ministry of Health and Ichimatamo to create awareness about sickle cell disease in an entertaining way, targeting the youth. According to the foundation, approximately 18,000 babies are born annually with sickle cell disease, highlighting the need for increased awareness and education.
Amos Andoh, Founder and Executive Director of the Focus on Sickle Cell Foundation, emphasized the importance of caregivers supporting individuals living with sickle cell disease, as the condition is chronic and can be troublesome.
“We want to find a way that we can change the narrative from unknown to known, so that the youth coming over, the generation coming will understand sickle cell condition better and choose wisely before they bring forth children living with the condition,” he said.
Ando explained that the foundation’s approach is to use entertainment and engaging methods to educate the youth about sickle cell disease, as they believe it is the most effective way to reach this demographic. “We believe that attract the youth more than anything, so we’re using music, art, and other creative ways to spread the message about sickle cell disease,” he said.
The foundation’s goal is to promote awareness and understanding among the youth to prevent the spread of the condition. By working together, the foundation aims to reduce the number of babies born with sickle cell disease and improve the lives of those living with the condition.
Ando encouraged caregivers to ensure that individuals with sickle cell disease take their medication on time, especially children, to prevent crises. He also highlighted the importance of managing the condition, stating that it can be done through simple measures such as drinking plenty of water, taking medication, and maintaining a healthy diet.
“The home remedies is to take enough water. Water should be your food. You can take it as your breakfast, your lunch or supper water, because even science shows that 70% of our well being as a body contains water, and that will help us to have smoothly loved circulation in the body,” he said.
Ando also emphasized the importance of reducing stress and avoiding triggers that can cause crises, stating that it is crucial for individuals living with sickle cell disease to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The partnership with NHI and Ichimatamo is expected to amplify the foundation’s efforts to create awareness and promote education about sickle cell disease. The foundation plans to organize various events and activities, including workshops, concerts, and social media campaigns, to reach a wider audience and promote awareness about sickle cell disease.
The Focus on Sickle Cell Foundation is calling on individuals, organizations, and communities to join them in their efforts to create awareness and promote education about sickle cell disease. Together, they can make a difference and improve the lives of those living with the condition.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
