NANDURBAR: Maharashtra’s tribal district of Nandurbar is witnessing a significant ramp-up in sickle cell disease screening, a genetic blood disorder affecting thousands, thanks to the adoption of Dried Blood Spot (DBS)-based Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing. This advanced method has replaced older, less reliable techniques, leading to improved accuracy and broader coverage in identifying individuals with sickle cell conditions.
Under the purview of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, Nandurbar has screened nearly seven lakh people since April 2025. The initiative has so far diagnosed approximately 7,000 individuals with the disease and identified up to 22% of those screened as carriers. The district aims for saturation screening of the 0-40 age group by 2027, aligning with national targets.
The shift to DBS-based testing offers several advantages. This method involves collecting a small drop of blood from a finger prick onto filter paper, which can then be transported for genetic testing without the need for refrigeration. This makes sample collection more convenient and accessible, especially in remote areas, and reduces biohazard risks for healthcare workers. Officials report that the district now conducts close to 50,000 tests monthly, a substantial increase that has been sustained due to strong administrative continuity.
Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder where red blood cells become rigid and can block blood flow, leading to severe pain, infections, and organ damage. The risk of transmission is particularly high in tribal communities where individuals often marry within close social groups. Health officials estimate that over 15,000 people in Nandurbar may be living with the condition, many of whom remain undiagnosed.
The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission has identified around 11 lakh individuals below the age of 40 in Nandurbar for screening. The DBS testing approach has enhanced participation and reliability, with greater ease of sample collection and more robust diagnoses. This initiative is part of a larger state-wide effort to combat sickle cell disease, with 21 high-prevalence districts, including Nandurbar, being targeted for mass screening.
District Collector Dr. Mittali Sethi highlighted that the prevalence is significantly higher in tribal pockets. The district’s focus is on saturation screening and establishing a robust system for follow-up care. The program is integrated into the public health system, with ASHA workers playing a crucial role in door-to-door visits and community outreach. The state’s Arunodoy initiative further supports these efforts by focusing on last-mile healthcare delivery in vulnerable regions.
The adoption of DBS testing in Nandurbar represents a significant stride in the fight against sickle cell disease in Maharashtra. The method’s accuracy, convenience, and cost-effectiveness are proving instrumental in scaling up screening efforts and ensuring that more individuals receive timely diagnosis and care. This aligns with the national mission to eliminate sickle cell anaemia by 2047.
The Chenab Times News Desk