An awareness programme on sickle cell anaemia was conducted at the Government Tribal Welfare Girls’ Hostel in Chittoor on Saturday. Officials of the Medical and Health Department spoke about the importance of early screening and timely medical intervention.

Addressing the students and staff, District Medical and Health Officer Naga Sashibhushan Reddy said that sickle cell anaemia is an inherited and serious blood disorder and not a contagious disease, explaining to the students about its symptoms, diagnostic tests, preventive measures and the need to adopt healthy lifestyle practices.

The field staff spoke about the role of balanced nutrition, regular health check-ups and government programmes aimed at eliminating the disease. They advised the students to consult a doctor immediately or inform their wardens if they noticed any suspicious symptoms.