REMEMBERING

NATHANIEL EWE

NO kID SHOULD DIE OF MEDICAL ERRORS

(NOKDOME)

Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder where red blood cells take on a rigid, sickle-like shape, causing complications. Nigeria faces a significant SCD burden, with over 150,000 babies born with the condition annually. Sickle cell disease is not a communicable disease, it is inherited when a child receives two abnormal hemoglobin genes, one from each parent. The impact of SCD extends beyond health, affecting various aspects of Nigerian society.

Sickle Cell Death And Medical Errors.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) poses a significant health challenge in Nigeria, exacerbated by medical errors impacting patient care. Misdiagnoses, treatment complications, and limited access to medications contribute to the struggles faced by individuals with SCD. The complexity of SCD symptoms and a lack of awareness among healthcare professionals often lead to delayed and inaccurate diagnoses. Treatment errors and a shortage of specialized healthcare providers further compound the issue. Addressing these challenges requires improved training, standardized protocols, and increased accessibility to medications. Collaborative efforts among healthcare stakeholders are essential to enhance SCD management in Nigeria.

No Kid Should Die of Medical Errors (Nokdome)

At Nokdome, we believe every kid deserves to be healthy and happy. That’s why we work hard to teach families and doctors about how to keep kids safe and healthy. We also want to help people understand why it’s important to marry someone who has similar genes.

We help people understand why it’s important to marry someone with similar genes. This can help families stay healthy and happy.

Symptoms of anemia

The symptoms of anemia include: .

Pain Crises (Vaso-Occlusive Crises): Sudden and severe episodes of pain, often in the joints, chest, abdomen, or bones. Pain crises can be triggered by reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues.

Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak due to a decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

Anemia: Individuals with sickle cell anemia may experience chronic anemia, leading to symptoms such as pallor, weakness, and shortness of breath.

Swelling of Hands and Feet: Swelling and pain in the hands and feet, known as dactylitis, particularly common in young children with sickle cell anemia.

Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to the breakdown of red blood cells and the release of bilirubin.

Inheritance Of Sickle Cell

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the HBB gene, which provides instructions for producing a component of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells. The inheritance pattern of sickle cell anemia follows an autosomal recessive pattern.

Must Do For Sicklers

Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with a knowledgeable healthcare provider.

Medication Adherence: Take prescribed medications consistently.

Hydration: Stay well-hydrated to prevent sickle cell crises.

Temperature Management: Avoid extreme temperatures to prevent complications..

Infection Prevention: Practice good hygiene and avoid sick individuals to reduce infection risks.

Iron-Rich Foods:While iron supplementation is generally not recommended for individuals with sickle cell anemia, consuming foods rich in iron is still important. These may include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals.

Folate (Vitamin B9):Folate is important for red blood cell production. Include folate-rich foods such as leafy green vegetables, oranges, avocados, and legumes in the diet.

Calcium and Vitamin D:Calcium and vitamin D are important for bone health. Include dairy products, fortified plant-based milk, and sunlight exposure for vitamin D.

Hydroxyurea and Folic Acid Supplements:Individuals prescribed hydroxyurea may require folic acid supplements. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage.

Treatment of Sickle Cell Anaemia

Treatment for sickle cell anemia aims to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall quality of life. While there is no cure for sickle cell anemia, various medical interventions and supportive measures can significantly enhance the well-being of individuals with the condition. Here are key aspects of treatment:

Medications: Hydroxyurea: This medication stimulates the production of fetal hemoglobin, which can help prevent the formation of sickle cells.

Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers are used to manage pain episodes (crises).

Antibiotics: Prophylactic antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infections, a common complication in sickle cell anemia.

Blood Transfusions: Regular blood transfusions may be recommended to increase the number of healthy red blood cells and improve oxygen delivery. This is often used for individuals with severe anemia or complications.

Hydration: Adequate hydration helps prevent sickle cell crises. Individuals are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, especially during hot weather or illness.

Folic Acid Supplements: Folic acid supplements are commonly prescribed to help the body produce new red blood cells and reduce the risk of anemia.

Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant: For select individuals, a bone marrow or stem cell transplant may be considered, particularly in children with severe sickle cell anemia.

Our Mission

At Nokdome we are driven by a heartfelt mission to make a difference in the lives of individuals affected by sickle cell disease (SCD) in Nigeria. In response to the tragic reality of children losing their lives to medical errors, we have taken a proactive step by establishing our NGO to raise awareness and provide crucial support.

Our Vision

We envision a Nigeria where every individual, regardless of their genetic makeup, receives timely and accurate information about the management and prevention of sickle cell disease.

Our Programs

Community Outreach and Education: Through engaging community outreach programs, we strive to disseminate accurate information about sickle cell disease. We conduct awareness campaigns in schools, local communities, and healthcare facilities, emphasizing the importance of early detection and proper management.

Genetic Counseling: We provide accessible and informative genetic counseling services to individuals and families. Understanding the hereditary nature of SCD empowers families to make informed decisions about their health and future generations.

Support for Affected Families: Recognizing the challenges faced by families dealing with SCD, we offer a support network. This includes emotional support, resources for managing the daily impact of the disease, and guidance on accessing healthcare services.

We support traumatized individuals, giving them the moral support to live a happy life irrespective of their genetic make ups and stigmatisation.

Join Us

Join hands with us to create a future where no child loses their life to preventable causes associated with sickle cell disease. Your support matters, and by becoming a part of Nokdome, you contribute to building a healthier and more informed community. Together, let’s make a lasting difference – join us in our mission today!