School-Based Sickle Cell Awareness Outreach

Tiwa Sickle Cell Disease Foundation implemented a school-based sickle cell awareness outreach across selected secondary schools in Ikorodu, Lagos State. The outreach was designed to educate young people about sickle cell disease, empowering them with knowledge that could shape their health decisions for years to come.

Research shows that educating young people about sickle cell disease and genotype compatibility is one of the most effective long-term strategies for reducing the prevalence of the condition. By reaching students at an age when they are beginning to think about their future, we can influence their understanding of genetic compatibility and family planning.

The outreach program included interactive presentations, group discussions, and Q&A sessions led by healthcare professionals and foundation volunteers. Students learned about the science behind sickle cell disease, how it is inherited, the importance of knowing their genotype, and how to support classmates who may be living with the condition.

In addition to the educational sessions, free genotype testing was offered to students who had parental consent. This allowed students to learn their sickle cell status early, giving them and their families valuable information for future health and family planning decisions.

Teachers and school administrators were also engaged, receiving training on how to support students with sickle cell disease in the classroom. This included recognizing the signs of a sickle cell crisis, understanding the need for accommodations during illness, and creating an inclusive environment that reduces stigma.

The outreach reached over 2,000 students across five secondary schools. Feedback from students and teachers was overwhelmingly positive, with many students expressing that this was the first time they had received comprehensive education about sickle cell disease.