Prenatal Testing for Sickle Cell Disease (SS) in Northern Nigeria
Sickle cell disease (SS) remains a major health concern across Northern Nigeria, especially for couples where both partners carry the AS genotype. Today, advanced prenatal testing allows expectant parents to determine their baby’s genotype before birth, enabling informed medical and personal decisions.
There are two main prenatal testing options available in Nigeria: Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) and Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS).
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) is a safe blood test performed on the mother from 10 weeks of pregnancy. It assesses the risk of the baby having sickle cell disease (SS). This method carries no risk to the pregnancy and is ideal for families seeking early reassurance. However, it is important to note that NIPT is a screening test and not a definitive diagnosis.
For families who require absolute certainty, Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) provides a confirmed fetal genotype result. This procedure involves collecting placental tissue and is coordinated through consultation in Abuja, with sampling carried out in Lagos. Results are typically available within 7 days. While highly accurate, CVS carries a small miscarriage risk (approximately 1%).
Choosing between NIPT and CVS depends on your priorities—whether you prefer a completely safe screening option or a definitive diagnostic result. Many families in Abuja, Kano, Kaduna, and across Northern Nigeria are now taking advantage of these services to plan ahead and reduce uncertainty.
Early testing empowers you to make informed decisions about your pregnancy with confidence.
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NIPT GENOTYPE SICKLE CELL
Worried about Sickle Cell (SS)? If both parents are AS genotype, your baby has 25% chance of SS, Many families in Northern Nigeria face this uncertainty during pregnancy.Now, you don’t have to wait until birth to know.
NIPT is a non-invasive screening test carried out using a sample of the mother’s blood during pregnancy. It analyses small fragments of fetal DNA to assess the likelihood of certain chromosomal conditions, including Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and other aneuploidies such as Trisomy 18 and Trisomy 13.
Expanded NIPT options may cover multiple monogenic diseases panels of dozens to 100+ conditions
