Indore: Modern Molecular Lab Opens At MYH To Combat Sickle Cell Disease In Fetuses

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Madhya Pradesh's first modern molecular lab in any government hospital has started operations at MY Hospital. The lab can detect sickle cell disease in fetuses, enabling early intervention and reducing the burden of new cases. Sickle cell anaemia, an incurable genetic disorder, affects thousands in the tribal districts of Dhar, Jhabua, and Alirajpur.

The lab, one of the few in India, supports the Government of India’s goal to eliminate the disease by 2047. The facility offers advanced testing, bone marrow transplants, and comprehensive care for patients. According to Dr Ashok Yadav, superintendent, MY Hospital, children of parents with sickle cell disease have a high risk of inheriting it.

The lab, originally slated for virtual inauguration by the Prime Minister or President on Tribal Pride Day, began operations independently on January 1. This development strengthens efforts to address the disease, which causes severe anaemia, joint pain, and other complications due to the abnormal shape of red blood cells.

State leads in sickle cell screening

Madhya Pradesh leads India in sickle cell screening, having screened over 90 lakh individuals and distributed nearly 54 lakh sickle cell cards. Notably, 75 per cent of patients in the state come from tribal districts, including Alirajpur, Jhabua, and Chhindwara.

The lab helps identify sickle cell traits at the molecular level during pregnancy, reducing the number of affected newborns. Currently, 1,400 sickle cell patients are registered at MY Hospital, with most hailing from Jhabua and Alirajpur.

-Dr Ashok Yadav Superintendent MY Hospital