Uganda: Sickle Cell Disease, a Major Public Health Challenge

Sickle cell disease remains a major public health issue in Uganda, affecting nearly 20,000 newborns annually. Many children die before age five due to late diagnosis, as in the case of Irene Nalukwago’s daughter, who suffered from severe anemia and paralysis. Uganda has expanded mandatory newborn screening to improve detection and treatment of this hereditary blood disorder. Irene Nalukwago shared the difficult journey her daughter faced, including frequent transfusions and lasting disabilities.