…Genotype Test is the Antidote to Sickle Cell – Hajiya Badiya Magaji Inuwa
Hajiya Badiya Magaji Inuwa, founder of the Sickle Cell Patient Help Promotion Center (SCPHPC) and popularly known as Mama Sicklers in Kaduna, has emphasized the importance of genotype testing as a preventive measure against sickle cell anemia.
She made this assertion while receiving an award from Hope Builders International Consult LTD in recognition of her efforts to improve the welfare of sickle cell patients in Kaduna State.
According to her, the prevalence of sickle cell anemia in Nigeria is largely due to the mismatch of conflicting genotypes in marriages and procreation. She explained that sickle cell anemia, a genetic disorder that distorts red blood cells and often leads to severe and painful blood clots, remains one of the top genetic hemoglobin disorders worldwide.
Hajiya Badiya, who hails from Katsina State, highlighted that genetically inherited chronic conditions like sickle cell anemia contribute to mortality, particularly in Africa. “Globally, over 300,000 babies are born with severe sickle cell disease each year, with 75 percent of these cases—about 225,000—occurring in Sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria bears 66 percent of this regional burden,” she said, citing statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“In Nigeria alone, nearly 150,000 children are born annually with sickle cell anemia, accounting for 50 percent of the global burden,” she added.
She further explained that sickle cell disease is inherited when a child receives two sickle cell genes, one from each parent. For instance, if two individuals with the AS genotype marry, they risk giving birth to children with the SS genotype, commonly referred to as sickle cell.
In 2017, the National Assembly passed a bill mandating hemoglobin-genotype testing for intending couples; however, it is yet to be signed into law. Hajiya Badiya criticized this delay, attributing the rise in sickle cell births to a lack of commitment to genotype testing before marriage.
She called on religious and civil institutions to require proof of genotype testing before officiating marriages, stating, “Sickle cell disease is like passing the sins of the parents onto the child. If both parents are carriers, the future of their child could be ruined.”
Comparing sickle cell to other diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, she noted that while those conditions primarily affect the individual, sickle cell burdens the innocent child. She added that sickle cell warriors often appear healthy until a crisis occurs, landing them in hospitals with unbearable pain.
A Personal Journey of Advocacy
As a mother of two sickle cell warriors, Hajiya Badiya shared her painful personal experience. She lost her eldest son, Isah Magaji Inuwa, to sickle cell anemia 18 years ago. His struggles inspired her to establish the SCPHPC, which caters to underprivileged sickle cell patients.
Since its inception 16 years ago, the center has supported over 3,000 patients by providing free routine medications, health talks, and basic necessities. “People must understand that sickle cell is not a death sentence. With proper management, warriors can lead healthy lives,” she emphasized.
“Many believe sickle cell is a killer, but it’s not. It only requires proper management. As a Muslim, I believe in God’s plan for every individual, including the day they will die,” she said.
Recognizing Dedication
Hajiya Badiya expressed gratitude to Hope Builders International Consult LTD for recognizing her efforts. “My team and I were surprised by the award. When we started this foundation 16 years ago, we were driven by the desire to help less privileged people suffering from the same disease that claimed my son’s life,” she said.
She acknowledged her staff for their unwavering dedication to the center’s mission and prayed for continued growth and success.
Hajiya Badiya concluded by thanking Allah and the individuals who have supported the center over the years. “If it were left to me alone, I would not ask for help. I do this to ease the suffering of others. My son’s battle with sickle cell was my motivation, and I hope our efforts continue to make a difference.”
