Men's Essential roles in the Management of Sickle Cell Anemia

Abstract

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, leading to the deformation of red blood cells and subsequent health complications. While much research has focused on the clinical aspects of SCA, this paper aims to shed light on the crucial and multifaceted roles that men play in the comprehensive management of this condition. Men, as integral members of families and communities, contribute significantly to the support systems necessary for effective SCA management. From a biological standpoint, understanding the genetic inheritance of SCA requires an exploration of paternal contributions. Moreover, men are often primary decision-makers in families, influencing choices related to healthcare, treatment modalities, and lifestyle adjustments. This paper discusses the importance of men's active involvement in genetic counseling, family planning, and fostering a supportive environment for individuals living with SCA. Psychosocially, men play essential roles as emotional anchors and caregivers, providing crucial support to family members coping with the challenges of SCA. This study explores the impact of male involvement on the mental well-being of both patients and their caregivers. Additionally, it investigates the role of men in community awareness programs, challenging stigmas associated with SCA and promoting a more inclusive and understanding society. Economically, the burden of managing SCA can be substantial. Men often serve as primary earners, and their financial contributions are pivotal in ensuring access to quality healthcare, medications, and educational resources for individuals with SCA. In NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES (NIJSES) Volume 4 Issue 2 2023 ©NIJSES Publications Open Access ONLINE ISSN: 2992-5819 PRINT ISSN: 2992-6149 Obeagu et al., 2023 This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited Page | 21 conclusion, this comprehensive perspective highlights the indispensable roles that men play in the management of sickle cell anemia. Recognizing and harnessing these contributions can lead to more effective strategies for addressing the complex challenges associated with SCA, fostering holistic well-being for individuals, families, and communities affected by this genetic disorder.