Health: Know your genotype, save your life

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.