Collaboration and Research Drive New Era in Sickle Cell Management

By daily News Reporter

For decades, sickle cell disease has silently burdened families across Zambia, robbing children of their health and communities of their potential. With 20–25 percent of the population carrying the sickle cell gene, the condition represents a significant public health challenge—one that has often been met with limited resources, fragmented services, and inadequate access to treatment.

But today, Zambia is charting a new course. Through the establishment of 19 specialised treatment units, the inclusion of hydroxyurea in public health facilities, and the rollout of national clinical guidelines, the Ministry of Health is transforming sickle cell care from a neglected concern into a structured, nationwide priority. These interventions not only promise improved survival and quality of life for patients but also signal a commitment to equity, research, and evidence-based practice.

For this reason Zambia has taken a major step forward in the fight against sickle cell disease (SCD) with the establishment of 19 specialized treatment units, the inclusion of hydroxyurea in public health facilities, and the introduction of national clinical guidelines to standardize care.

These measures, where announced during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting in Lusaka, mark a turning point in efforts to improve survival and quality of life for patients living with the condition. 

Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services at the Ministry of Health, officiated at the meeting and described the interventions as critical in addressing what he called a “significant public health concern.”

He noted that between 20–25 percent of Zambia’s population carries the sickle cell gene, underscoring the urgency of scaling up care nationwide.

“Sustained investment in research, policy integration, and improved access to treatment are essential to reducing mortality and improving quality of life for patients,” Dr. Lishimpi said.

Among the interventions outlined were:

19 specialised sickle cell units across the country staffed with trained personnel.

Hydroxyurea added to the national essential medicines list, improving access to effective treatment.

National clinical guidelines to support care at primary healthcare levels.

Stroke risk screening for children using transcranial Doppler technology at University Teaching Hospitals (UTH).

Advanced care options such as red cell exchange transfusion at UTH, Lusaka Multi-State University Teaching Hospital, Ndola Teaching Hospital, Arthur Davison Children’s Hospital, and the Women and Newborn Hospital.

While most services remain concentrated along the line of rail, limiting access for rural populations, Dr. Lishimpi highlighted ongoing collaborations with the American Society of Hematology to expand training and specialist programmes. Community Health Workers are also being engaged to raise awareness, promote early diagnosis, and strengthen follow-up care.

Dr. Catherine Chuunda Liyoka, Consultant Paediatrician at UTH and Principal Investigator for the PACTS Sickle Cell in Africa project, emphasised the importance of translating research findings into policy and practice. She pointed to challenges such as limited diagnostic services, shortages of specialist care, inconsistent hydroxyurea availability, and lack of mental health support.

“Collaboration among researchers, clinicians, policymakers, media, and communities is essential to sustain progress in sickle cell care,” Dr. Chuunda said.

The meeting brought together health directors, medical staff, researchers, and media, programme managers to validate research findings and ensure recommendations are practical and actionable. Dr. Choonga, Lusaka Province Health Director, stressed the importance of evidence-based practice and translating research into implementable solutions that can strengthen services across the province and serve as a model for other regions.

As Zambia moves forward, the Ministry of Health has committed to expanding newborn screening, decentralizing specialized services, and strengthening international partnerships. For families affected by sickle cell disease, these measures represent hope for improved care, reduced mortality, and a brighter future.

And of the beneficiaries from the meeting, at just 25 years old, Mwansa from Chawama Compound in Lusaka, has already lived through challenges that many adults would find overwhelming. Diagnosed with sickle cell disease as a toddler, at his childhood was marked by frequent hospital visits, painful crises, and missed school days. For his parents, each episode was a reminder of the fragility of life and the uncertainty of the future.

“I used to get sick almost every month,” Mwansa recalls.

“Sometimes I couldn’t go for work, and I felt different from other workmates,”

For years, treatment options were limited, and his family struggled to manage the condition. But things began to change when Zambia introduced specialized sickle cell units and made hydroxyurea available in public health facilities. Mwansa was among the first patients at University Teaching Hospital to benefit from the new services.

With hydroxyurea therapy and regular monitoring, her crises became less frequent. Doctors also screened his for stroke risk using transcranial Doppler technology, ensuring early intervention. Today, Mwansa goes for work regularly.

His mother describes the transformation as “a miracle of science and care.” She says the availability of specialised services has given his son not just treatment, but hope.

Mwansa’s story is one of resilience and survival, but it also reflects Zambia’s broader commitment to improving sickle cell care. With 19 specialised units now established, national guidelines in place, and advanced care options available, patients like Grace are no longer defined by their disease—they are empowered to live fuller, healthier lives.

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