Sickle Cell Disorder: Get Your Facts Right

Were you ever told as a child that an itchy hand was a sign of future wealth? Or that someone stepping over you while lying down was a sign of an impending doom? I remember vividly my happy dance steps in anticipation of the money to come whenever my left palm itched, and the hysteria until the person that stepped over me retraced their steps. Imagine my shock when I grew up and realized that those were nothing but myths.

You probably have more examples of your own, things you heard and believed without questioning while growing up but which turned out to be baseless and untrue, some even downright opposing science. For instance, the cracking of knuckles was believed to cause arthritis (the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints). Logically though, knuckle cracking is actually a helpful exercise which improves the range of motion and strengthens the muscles surrounding the joints, and could not possibly lead to arthritis.

There was another dreaded disorder I heard of as a kid. It was said that people who had it usually did not live long, and their loved ones constantly feared losing them until they made it past the age of 21. It turns out this was just one of the widely held but false beliefs about Sickle Cell Disorder which have instigated fear over time. The fact is that if properly managed, most people living with the disorder actually make it past adulthood. I personally know of such a person, a friend that I greatly admire.

There are various myths surrounding Sickle Cell Disorder that need to be busted with facts. This can only be achieved by creating awareness to enlighten and educate people. In line with this, the Unite Nation officially designated June 19 as World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, and it is observed annually to increase public knowledge of Sickle Cell Disorder. It also provides an opportunity to understand the disorder and the challenges experienced by patients, their families and caregivers. In solidarity with those living with sickle cell, let us endeavor to seek factual information regarding the disorder. Also, if you are privileged to know the true facts about Sickle Cell Disorder, do well to share with others. Ye are the light of the world!

Simon Gerald Ekene Okika