States » EastPosted at: Oct 22 2026 4:55PM


Odisha develops protocol for managing sickle cell disease during pregnancy

Bhubaneswar, Oct 22 (UNI) In a significant step towards reducing maternal mortality associated with sickle cell disease, Odisha has formulated a comprehensive protocol for the management of pregnancy among women affected by the disorder, marking a major milestone in strengthening maternal healthcare in the state.
The protocol was highlighted at a one-day State-Level Review-cum-Dissemination Workshop on “Sickle Cell Disease during Pregnancy”, organised here on Thursday by the National Health Mission (NHM), Odisha, the Directorate of Blood Safety and UNICEF Odisha at Hotel HHI.
The workshop aimed to review the implementation of the Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Programme and sensitise District Public Health Officers (DPHOs) and Assistant Managers (NCD) from 21 high-burden districts, along with NHM officials and representatives of key development partners, including the William J Clinton Foundation (WJCF).
Odisha continues to be at the forefront of screening and detection efforts under the sickle cell programme. The newly developed protocol is expected to provide structured clinical guidance and clearly defined responsibilities for healthcare providers at different levels to ensure timely and appropriate care for pregnant women affected by sickle cell disease.
Pregnancy among women with sickle cell disease carries significantly higher health risks than in unaffected pregnancies. Timely diagnosis, regular monitoring and systematic medical intervention are essential to minimise complications and improve maternal and foetal outcomes.
The protocol is the first of its kind in the state and has been developed through a collaborative effort involving experts from state medical colleges, NHM programme divisions, the Directorate of Health Services and UNICEF.
During the technical sessions, participants reviewed the current status of the sickle cell programme and deliberated on measures to strengthen screening, treatment, follow-up services and transportation benefits.
They also discussed new initiatives planned for the current year and received detailed orientation on the newly introduced protocol for managing pregnancy among women with sickle cell disease.
The workshop concluded with the formulation of a joint action plan to ensure effective and coordinated implementation of the protocol at the district level.
The initiative,official sources said , is expected to strengthen healthcare delivery for pregnant women living with sickle cell disease and contribute to the state's broader efforts to eliminate sickle cell anaemia and reduce preventable maternal health complications.
Prominent health administrators and dignitaries, including Harish Chandra Nayak, Mission Director (In-charge), Dr. Sanjay Kumar Mohapatra, Director, Blood Safety & Public Health, Dr. Bishnu Prasad Mohapatra, Director, Family Welfare ,Dr. Bijay Kumar Mohapatra, Team Lead, SHSRC, Dr. Murlidhar Padhi, Additional Director Maternal Health, Dr. Meena Som, Health Specialist, UNICEF Odisha attended the workshop.
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