Assessment of tribal students under the Tribal Sub-Plan Districts of Rajasthan for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), Sickle Cell Trait (SCT) and development of appropriate intervention model

This cross-sectional community-based study was conducted to assess the prevalence of SCD and SCT among tribal students in Maa Badi centres and hostels across five TSP districts of Rajasthan. A total of 36,752 students (23,496 from Maa Badi and 13,256 from hostels) were screened. Initial solubility testing in the field was followed by confirmatory testing using cellulose acetate electrophoresis at NIIRNCD. Samples were uniquely coded and stored at 4°C. Genetic counselling was provided to affected students and families.