A Facebook post claiming the discovery of a traditional remedy for sickle cell disease is false.
Published on January 13, 2023, on the Facebook page “Cancerimed,” the post claims: “We have a solution for you after several years of research in pharmacopoeia DREPANOMED. This enhanced traditional medicine is specially designed to cure sickle cell disease…”
The post also lists the unit price as 38,000 FCFA for individuals with the disease residing in the Central African Republic. Be cautious of such information that provides false hope.
Verification:
Interviewed by AFC, Dr. Nadège Madopéo, from the Center for the Treatment and Management of Sickle Cell Disease in the Central African Republic, dismisses this information: “This is false. Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder where red blood cells are abnormally shaped and thus incurable. DREPANOMED does not cure sickle cell disease; however, the medications prescribed at the Center aim to manage and extend the periods between crises.”
Similarly, Dr. Eloi Kosh-Komba confirms: “This is truly false information. Sickle cell disease is a genetic and hereditary condition; to date, there is no study worldwide that can return this condition to normal.”
Further research with the World Health Organization found no certified treatment for sickle cell disease on their official site.
According to our research findings: “The main aspect of treatment involves early intervention to address preventable issues using painkillers, antibiotics, proper nutrition, folic acid supplementation, and adequate hydration. Hydroxyurea treatment has significantly reduced many major complications.”
According to the National Institute for Health and Medical Research, managing sickle cell disease primarily involves preventing complications and regular medical follow-up. Early prevention helps delay the onset and reduce the frequency of health issues. Neonatal screening remains an essential tool.
Alleged remedies reappearing on social media, with supporting contacts, give false hope to individuals with sickle cell disease. To date, the WHO has not approved any specific traditional medicine that cures sickle cell disease, which is a genetic hereditary disorder with autosomal recessive transmission.
AFC
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