It is believed that the highest number of sickle cell patients are registered in this part of the country, prompting the association to visit the village.
Alieu Sambou, President of the Association said they were delighted to visit the village and share relevant information with them regarding the disease.
He expressed shock that there is no health facility nearby apart from MRC Keneba. He said considering how serious the disease can be especially when one has an attack and needs immediate check up from a doctor, there is need for a health facility nearby or in the community.
Mr Sambou informed residents that June is Sickle Cell awareness month but added that they could not conduct the awareness in June because a prominent member of their association passed away.
He stated that Sickle Cell affects millions of people worldwide.
“Every month over a hundred thousand kids are born with Sickle Cell and almost half a million people die of the disease every year,” he disclosed.
He however urged them not to panic. He advised them to be visiting the health centre frequently and take their medications as advised by a doctor.
Sickle cell experts from Medical Research Council and Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital discussed symptoms of the disease with people of Tankularr.
Modou Bella Jallow and Dr. Masering Njie also advised the audience to see a doctor for advice before getting married, adding that it is important for one to do a test to see if your partner is compatible for marriage. They said most of the Sickle cell disease is because of close inter-marriage among very close family members.
