In a passionate effort to reduce the prevalence of sickle cell disease in Ghana, the Xtra Youth Support and Care Organisation (XYSCO) has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign, beginning with a powerful seminar at the KNUST Senior High School (KNUST SHS) in Kumasi. The campaign aims to encourage young people to know their genotypes and make informed choices in relationships to prevent the spread of the hereditary blood disorder.
The seminar, which attracted a large gathering of students, educators, and healthcare professionals, focused on the importance of genotype testing, the causes and effects of sickle cell disease, and the responsibility of young people in shaping a healthier generation.
Dr. Efuah Owusu Ansah, a seasoned dietitian and youth health advocate, was one of the lead speakers at the event. She cautioned students against making romantic decisions without first knowing their genotype. “Sickle cell disease is not contagious—it’s inherited. When both parents carry the sickle gene (AS), there is a 25% chance their child will be born with sickle cell disease (SS),” she said. “That’s why we are urging all of you: get tested before making long-term relationship commitments.”
She explained the severe effects of the disease, which include chronic pain, frequent hospital admissions, fatigue, and emotional stress. “Raising a child with the SS genotype is not easy. It takes a toll on families—physically, emotionally, and financially. Prevention starts with knowledge,” she emphasized.
Dr. Owusu Ansah also offered practical tips for individuals already living with the disease. These included drinking enough water, avoiding stress, eating nutritious foods, and adhering to medical advice. “Living with sickle cell is not a death sentence, but proper care is key to survival and a good quality of life,” she added.
Joining her was Madam Catherine A. Korankye Eastwood, Principal Nursing Officer and Preceptor at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, who provided a deeper look into the medical complications of the condition. She listed symptoms such as severe anaemia, frequent pain episodes, stroke, and even organ damage as common effects of sickle cell disease. “The suffering begins in childhood. That’s why awareness and testing are so important,” she stated. “If we can encourage our youth to know their genotype, we can significantly reduce the number of children born with the SS genotype.”
Madam Korankye Eastwood also encouraged students to see genotype testing as a crucial life decision. “Just as you think carefully about your career or education path, you must also think about your health and the future of your family,” she advised.
She emphasized that people with the AA genotype should never be shamed or blamed for their relationship choices, as long as they understand the risks and are prepared for the consequences.
The seminar concluded with an interactive Q&A session that allowed students to engage directly with the health professionals. Many expressed surprise at the level of risk involved and pledged to get tested and spread the message among their peers.
Some of the students expressed heartfelt gratitude to the XYSCO team for organizing the program. According to them, the education had “opened their minds” to the realities of sickle cell disease and empowered them to make wiser decisions for their future.
XYSCO representatives thanked the school for the opportunity and announced that the campaign would continue in other schools and communities across the country in the coming weeks.
As students left the venue, one message echoed clearly in their minds:
“Know your genotype today, protect your future tomorrow.”
