Sickle Cell Awareness
Every life
deserves
to be lived
fully
We educate, support, and advocate for people living with sickle cell disease across Nigeria and beyond.
1 in 4
Nigerians carry the
sickle cell trait (AS)
2,000+
People educated
200+
Screenings conducted
580+
Patients supported
12
States reached
What is sickle cell disease?
A disease that shapes every moment of life.
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder where red blood cells become rigid and crescent-shaped — blocking blood flow and causing severe pain, organ damage, and life-threatening complications.
Nigeria has the highest burden of SCD in the world. Approximately 150,000 babies are born with SCD in Nigeria every year — many of whom don't survive to their fifth birthday due to lack of awareness and access to care.
SS
Sickle cell disease
Both parents pass sickle gene
AS
Sickle cell trait
Carrier — usually no symptoms
SC
Sickle-haemoglobin C
Milder form of SCD
AA
Normal
No sickle genes inherited
Common symptoms
-
Painful crises
Sudden, severe pain in the chest, joints, or abdomen — often requiring hospitalisation
-
Anaemia & fatigue
Sickled cells break down faster than normal, causing persistent tiredness and weakness
-
Stroke risk
Blocked blood vessels in the brain can cause stroke, even in young children
-
Organ damage
Kidneys, spleen, and eyes are particularly vulnerable to long-term damage
Patient stories
Real lives. Real courage.
Lagos, Nigeria
"I refused to let SCD define me.."
Adaeze was diagnosed with sickle cell disease at age 3. Growing up, she faced countless hospital visits, painful crises, and moments of despair. But...
Read Adaeze's story
Abuja, Nigeria
"Knowledge saved my family from heartbreak."
Emeka and his wife were planning their wedding when they decided to get genotype tested. Discovering they were both AS carriers was a shock, but it al...
Read Emeka's story
Port Harcourt, Nigeria
"My daughter will not grow up afraid."
When Ngozi's daughter was diagnosed with SS genotype, she was terrified. "I didn't know what to expect, and I was scared for her future," she recalls....
Read Ngozi's storyMake a difference today
Your support keeps a
warrior going.
Every donation funds screenings, patient support, and awareness campaigns that reach the people who need it most.
Upcoming events
Join us in the field.
Aug
15
Caregivers Training Program — Online
Online Online
Aug
22
Warriors Walk — Annual Fundraising Walk
Millennium Park, Abuja
Sep
10
SCD Research Symposium 2026
Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos
Latest from the blog
News & insights.
New Gene Therapy Trial Shows Promise for SCD Patients in Africa
A landmark clinical trial across three West African countries is showing early positive results in reducing painful crises for sickle cell disease patients.
June 10, 2026
Why Genotype Testing Before Marriage is Non-Negotiable
Knowing your genotype is the single most important step every Nigerian couple can take before starting a family. Here's why it matters.
May 28, 2026
How to Support a Loved One Living with Sickle Cell Disease
Practical advice for families and friends — from crisis management at home to navigating hospital visits with confidence.
May 14, 2026