Sickle cell anaemia, a hereditary disease that causes red blood cells to become stiff and abnormal crescent-shaped, has been identified as a major health threat among the Tharu people in Bardiya district. 

According to the District Public Health Office (DPHO) records, there are 382 people in the district who are receiving treatment for the disease. 

Health workers say the number of people living with the condition in the district could be much higher because many people do not seek medical help unless the disease causes serious health hazards. 

Mahendradhwaj Adhikari, the DPHO chief, said that the government does not charge Sickle cell patients if their treatment cost is below Rs 100,000. 

To receive the benefit, patients must get recommendation from the DPHO. 

Sickle cell disease incidence is also high among the Tharu people living in Dang, Banke, Kailali and Kanchanpur districts, say health officials. 

If left untreated, Sickle cell can block blood flow and cause several health complications. Anaemia, joint and muscle aches, pneumonia, mild fever and jaundice are common symptoms of the disease.