National Alliance forSickle Cell andThalassemia Control
A Registered Societyfor a HealthierTomorrow
NASTC is a registered society headquartered in Bhubaneswar, Odisha working on Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassemia Control. Our society is committed to transform the landscape of care and prevention of these severe inherited blood disorders across affected regions.
Recognizing the substantial physical, social, and economic challenges these diseases impose on individuals, families, and communities, our mission is to reduce this burden by integrating comprehensive medical care, robust prevention mechanisms, and extensive community empowerment into one sustainable model.
Our vision reflects the goal of fostering healthier communities where affected individuals receive timely, effective treatment while new cases are prevented through education and early intervention. We associate to reduce the burden of sickle cell disease and thalassemia by delivering accessible, quality medical care, promoting early detection, and fostering awareness, thereby contributing to healthier communities.
Understanding the Diseases & Cells
Sickle Cell Disease
Drepanocyte (HbS Polymerization)
An inherited genetic blood disorder where abnormal hemoglobin S polymerizes under low oxygen conditions, turning flexible red cells into rigid, sticky sickles that obstruct microvascular blood flow.
Clinical Key: Capillary entrapment triggers severe episodic vaso-occlusive pain crises, acute chest syndrome, and chronic hemolytic anemia.
Objectives of the Society
Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassemia Control — Strategic Action Objectives
Comprehensive Healthcare Access & Management
The Society's first objective is to make affordable, accessible and high-quality healthcare available to every person living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) or Thalassemia, from initial screening to advanced treatment, building an unbroken continuum of lifelong care.
Accurate Diagnosis & Early Detection
Promoting solubility testing for initial screening and automated HPLC for confirmatory diagnosis, ensuring carriers and patients are identified accurately and early.
Treatment & Clinical Management
Delivering hydroxyurea therapy, safe blood transfusion services, iron chelation to avert organ damage, pain crisis management, infection prophylaxis, and early prenatal diagnosis.
Network of Care & Patient Registries
Developing equipped centres from primary health posts to tertiary hospitals, staffed by trained specialists and linked via integrated registries for continuous longitudinal care.
Our Members
The dedicated clinicians, public health leaders, and advisors steering NASTC forward.
Dr. Arpita Priyadarshini
Prof. Dr. R. K. Jena
Dr. Dinabandhu Sahoo
Dr. Madhusmita Bal
Send an Enquiry
Need guidance regarding screening centers, genetic counseling, or program participation? Submit your query below and our team will get in touch with you.