Nigerian singer Adekunle Almoruf Kosoko, popularly known as Adekunle Gold, has said he continues to experience health crises caused by sickle cell disorder, despite managing the condition since childhood.
The 38-year-old artist spoke about his experience in a recent interview shared in a video on social media. He explained that he has been on lifelong medication since early childhood.
“I still have crises,” he said, adding that he has been on folic acid and B-complex since the age of five.
Adekunle Gold described the severe pain associated with sickle cell crises, often affecting the joints, legs and stomach. He recalled his first awareness of the condition as a child when his mother had to carry him to the hospital at night due to a serious episode, at a time when his father was not at home.
Adekunle who is currently married to fellow music artiste Simi, explained that his parents both carried the sickle cell gene and were unaware of the importance of genotype compatibility before having children. He urged the public, especially couples, to ensure they know their genotypes to prevent more children being born with the disorder.
“My vision is to make more noise about it because a lot of people don’t know about it, and the important organisations are not doing enough,” he said.
“Where sickle cell is more common is in my country Nigeria. It happens when an SS matches an SS. Knowing your genotype is very important so you do not bring more children into the world with sickle cell.”
Adekunle Gold said although his crises are less frequent now than during his childhood, managing the condition remains expensive. He noted that improved self-care and access to better resources have helped him cope.
The artist has used his platform in recent years to speak more openly about sickle cell.
His recently released ‘Fuji’ album has gained massive traction on social media.
