Sickle cell anaemia: The need for new approaches in management

Sickle cell anaemia is an important genetic disorder in India and is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Over 100 000 people are affected by this disorder and 10%-40% of the 85 million tribal population carries this gene. Conventional management and therapy with hydroxyurea provides symptomatic relief. A search for an anti-sickling agent has so far proved unsuccessful. However, improving upon existing compounds; looking for newer products using modern tools of bioinformatics, monoclonal antibody and aptamer technology; and evaluating medicines from ethno-pharmacology are promising approaches in managing this disease.