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WORLD ANTHROPOLOGICAL UNION

CONGRESS 2024​

Paper

Understanding the Burden and Management of Sickle Cell Disease in Rural Communities: A Case Study of Umuri Village, Odisha, India

presenters

    Sourabh Dwivedi

    Nationality: India

    Residence: India

    Presence:Online

The abstract provides a comprehensive overview of a study conducted in Umuri village, Koraput district, Odisha, India, focusing on sickle cell disease (SCD) prevalence, demographic profiles, medical management, individual perspectives, challenges, and future directions. The study, employing a cross-sectional design, reveals a significant prevalence of SCD within the Dombo caste group, particularly affecting adults aged 21-40. Medical management primarily consists of Folic Acid tablets and Hydroxyurea, although access to healthcare remains challenging. Through case studies, contrasting experiences are highlighted, ranging from positive outlooks with familial support to economic strain exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Challenges include financial constraints, limited awareness, and access to specialized care, emphasizing the need for comprehensive public health interventions. Unique cases, such as individuals claiming to be SCD-free after treatment, underscore the complexity of genetic disorders and the importance of genetic counseling. Overall, the study contributes valuable insights into SCD epidemiology, management, and individual experiences, highlighting the necessity for holistic care approaches and longitudinal research to improve outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals and their families.

Keywords:

Sickle cell disease, prevalence, individual perspectives, quality of life, challenges