By Our Correspondent
National News – The Adekunle Gold Foundation has provided free medical care and support to over 400 people living with sickle cell disease in Lagos through a quarterly health outreach aimed at improving treatment access and patient wellbeing.
The outreach programme, organised in collaboration with the Sickle Cell Advocacy and Management Initiative, delivered essential healthcare services to patients battling the genetic blood disorder.
Medical experts provided specialist consultations, laboratory diagnostic tests, pain management support, physiotherapy sessions, and crisis care for patients experiencing complications linked to the condition.
Healthcare professionals also administered blood transfusions to individuals suffering from severe anaemia, one of the common complications of sickle cell disease.
In addition, beneficiaries received prescription medications and treatment supplies designed to support their healthcare needs for up to three months after the outreach.
Sickle cell disease remains one of the most common inherited blood disorders worldwide.
Nigeria is believed to carry the largest burden of the disease globally, with millions of people living with the condition and thousands of babies born with it annually.
Despite its prevalence, the disease often receives limited global attention and funding compared to other major health conditions.
The foundation was established by Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold, who has openly shared his personal experience living with sickle cell disease since childhood.
Through his advocacy work, the music star has continued to promote awareness, improved healthcare access, and support for individuals affected by the condition.
Speaking on the initiative, Gold explained that people living with sickle cell disease often face not only physical pain but also financial challenges in accessing consistent medical care.
He said the foundation was created to help bridge that gap and provide patients with the support needed to live healthier lives.
Beyond medical outreaches, the foundation has expanded its long-term support programmes.
In 2025, it introduced the 5 Star Care initiative, which provided free health insurance coverage for 1,000 people living with sickle cell disease in Lagos.
The initiative was implemented in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Health and the Lagos State Health Management Agency, ensuring beneficiaries could access sustained healthcare within the state’s medical system.
The foundation is also working with researchers at New York University’s Department of Global Health to explore new treatments that could improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
