Brazil initiatives support sickle cell disease rights and care

In Brazil, various actions are being taken to support individuals living with sickle cell disease. In Ilhéus, the municipal government met with the Association of People with Sickle Cell Disease of Ilhéus (APEDFI) to address the suspension of the 'passe livre' (free transit pass). This benefit is essential for patients to access medical appointments, treatments, and other vital services.

In Salvador, the Rilza Valentim State Reference Center for People with Sickle Cell Disease (CERPDF/Hemoba) organized educational activities to mark the National Day of Struggle for the Rights of People with Sickle Cell Disease. The initiative included multidisciplinary lectures covering nursing, psychology, nutrition, and social work to promote integral care and information access.

Additionally, the Hemocentro Regional in Vitória da Conquista hosted discussions regarding the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. The state's reference center provides a specialized multidisciplinary team to assist patients from both the capital and the interior, including hematologists, pediatricians, and various specialists.