It may seem unbelievable, even with various and recent
advancements in medicine, that many people don’t know their genotype.
Thanks to some faith-based organisations which now insist
that intending couples should know their genotype and their blood compatibility
before getting married; otherwise, many would go through life, in this part of
the clime, without knowing what gene they carry.
Experts say that not knowing your genotype is a risk no one
should overlook, as it determines you and your offspring’s risks of developing
certain diseases.
They warn that ignorance is no longer bliss, as it has led
to the untimely death of those who discovered when the deed had already been
done.
Consultant Haematologist, Dr. Segun Ashimolowo, says for
one, knowing one’s genotype would reveal whether one has the genotype type AA,
one is carrying the sickle cell gene (AS) or has the sickle cell disorder.
He notes that sickle cell disorder is an African blood
disorder and it is estimated that five million Nigerians are living with the
disorder, while 40 million others are carriers of the S gene.
You may wonder what the fuss is about being a sickle cell
carrier. After all, it is an inherited disorder, one which you may have no
control over; unlike other diseases which are contracted.
Ashimolowo says sickle cell disorder is a serious medical
condition which, when not detected early and managed appropriately, could lead
to premature death of babies, children and adults.
According to him, people living with the disorder may
suffer lifelong disabilities, including hip dislocation disease, leg ulcers,
early onset of arthritis, anaemia and paralysis.
He explains further, “Sickle cell anaemia is a condition in
which the body makes sickle-shaped red blood cells instead of normal red blood
cells which are disc-shaped and look like doughnuts without holes in the
centre.
“Sickle cells contain abnormal haemoglobin called sickle
haemoglobin or haemoglobin S. Sickle haemoglobin causes the cells to develop a
sickle or crescent shape. Such cells are stiff and sticky.
“They tend to block blood flow in the blood vessels of the
limbs and organs. Blocked blood flow can cause pain and organ damage. It can
also raise the risk for infections. These are very serious health problems that
can be avoided with early detection and treatment.”
He, however, notes that insisting that intending couples
should undergo blood tests is not a way to prevent them from marrying or an
attempt to stigmatise those living with the sickle cell disorder.
According to him, many children who have the sickle cell
disorder have died because their parents who should have known their own
genotype and their baby’s genotype at birth were not aware of the peculiar
nature of their health.
He notes, “Many couples run away from knowing their
genotype because they feel it will stop their marriage; while those with the
disorder feel it’s a way to stigmatise them and deny them a happy home.
This is not true! Knowing that you have sickle cell will
save that marriage from heartaches and trauma. It will help both of you make
scientific decision on whether or not you should go on, adopt a baby or choose
to have babies. That way, you will be better prepared to manage their health
and the crises they may have.”
Forty-eight-year-old sickle cell survivor, Tosin Odutola,
agrees with this view. She notes that marriage and genetic counselling for
intending couples will help them make informed decisions and also reduce the
sickle cell burden in the country.
Odutola states, “I will strongly advise couples carrying
the genes to make informed decisions, it is not just about them. They must know
that the lives of their children are at stake. If you know you cannot cope with
the rigours and financial challenges of having a sickle cell child, then do not
marry.
“The challenges facing a sickle cell child are enormous;
their survival depends on the level of support you give them as a parent. If
you know you cannot provide that, why take the chance? If you are not
financially capable, do not consider it. You will have to spend a lot of money
on hospital bills to ensure the child does not die.”
Odutola, however, says that it is not enough reason to
discourage marriage between carriers of the gene. Organisations that do this,
she warns, could also cause emotional distress.
“All carriers cannot launch a manhunt for partners with the
AA genotype. It will be a real dilemma because it may affect your relationship
with your present spouse. But both parties must be aware of what lies ahead so
they can be better prepared.”
Yes, great social and health challenges lie ahead of a
person living with the sickle cell disorder and their families. Children, especially,
go through much more harrowing experience, compared to the adults when the
condition is not diagnosed early and managed properly.
Please, take a genotype test today, whatever the result, it
is not a death sentence.
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