In the effort to reduce the sickle cell burden in Nigeria, educating young people about their genetic status is crucial. Secondary school students, especially in Oyo State, are at a formative age for genetic education, as they are starting to make independent choices and, in many cases, are unaware of their genotype. A sustained campaign on genotype awareness could significantly lower sickle cell transmission rates over time, fostering a healthier future generation.
Recognizing this, the outreach team from the Bunmi Akinsola Sickle Cell Initiative (BASC Initiative) visited Ikolaba High School, Iwo Road, on July 4, 2024. The team was comprised of Mr. John Aremo, the Administrative Head of BASC Initiative, along with dedicated volunteers Miss Ajetunmobi Joy, Miss Opemipo Olubolade, and Dr. Yemisi D. Adeoye. The program was scheduled to start at 8:00 AM and concluded successfully at 8:55 AM.
Arrival and Reception
The team arrived between 7:45 and 8:00 AM and was warmly received by Mrs. Yakubu, the Vice Principal in charge of Co-Curricular Activities. After meeting some of the teachers and the head of the school, they prepared to deliver an impactful presentation designed to engage both students and teachers, offering valuable insights into sickle cell disease (SCD) and its management.
The Talk: Understanding and Managing Sickle Cell Disease
Mr. John Aremo opened the ” Know your genotype campaign”. Through an engaging presentation supported by visual aids, he conveyed essential knowledge about sickle cell disease to the attentive audience.
The talk covered:
1. Understanding SCD
Mr. Aremo explained the basics of SCD, discussing what it is, its causes, and the different types. He then moved to the symptoms and complications associated with the disease, giving students a clear understanding of its effects.
2. Interactive Discussion and Dispelling Myths
Following the foundational information, he encouraged an open discussion to address common misconceptions. This interactive segment allowed students to ask questions and clarify doubts, ensuring they walked away with accurate knowledge.
3. Prevention and Management Strategies
The presentation also emphasized preventive measures and management strategies essential for those affected by SCD. Mr. Aremo highlighted the importance of regular medical check-ups, hydration, balanced nutrition, and pain management. He also discussed triggers to avoid, such as extreme temperatures and dehydration, to help manage symptoms.
4. Lifestyle and Well-being
Through a hands-on workshop, Mr. Aremo stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including physical activity, stress management, and community support. He engaged students with group activities and role-playing scenarios that reinforced these concepts, empowering them to make positive lifestyle choices.
Question-and-Answer Session and Student Engagement
Following Mr. Aremo’s presentation, Miss Ajetunmobi Joy led an interactive Q&A session. Students actively participated, showing keen interest and understanding. Many were eager to answer questions, and those who responded correctly were rewarded with small gifts, creating an atmosphere of excitement and further reinforcing the key messages of the talk.
Miss Ajetunmobi then offered a summary of the main takeaways from the session, encouraging students to continue learning about SCD and to spread awareness within their communities. Her words resonated strongly with the students, who were inspired to share the knowledge with family and friends, becoming advocates for sickle cell awareness.
Community Impact and Future Plans
As the session concluded, gifts and souvenirs were presented to the school administration, including the head of the school and the vice principals, as a token of appreciation. Group photos were taken with teachers and student representatives, capturing a memorable moment that celebrated the success of the campaign.
A significant highlight was when a teacher, Mr. Akeem, identified a student living with sickle cell. This student was documented to be enrolled as one of BASC Initiative’s beneficiaries in the coming year, extending vital support to those in need.
By targeting young individuals, the campaign aims to equip them with the necessary knowledge about genotype compatibility and the risks associated with inheriting the sickle cell trait. Early awareness of one’s genotype encourages informed choices regarding marriage and family planning, ultimately reducing the prevalence of SCD in future generations.
Conclusion
The health discussion with the students and teachers at Ikolaba High School was highly successful, imparting critical information about sickle cell disease and empowering participants with knowledge and resources. Through this program, the BASC Initiative reinforced its commitment to combating sickle cell disease in Nigeria, one school and one community at a time.
The event concluded at 8:55 AM, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
Report by:
Dr. Yemisi Adeoye
BASC Initiative Outreach Team Volunteer