Sickle Cell
What is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited blood disorder where abnormal hemoglobin within the red blood cells causes the cells to become rigid, sticky, and shaped like a sickle. The sickling shape makes the blood cells fragile, impeding blood flow which over time can cause severe pain, and harm organs, muscles, and bones.
People with sickle cell disease often have anemia, caused by a shortage of red blood cells. Carriers of the sickle cell gene are said to have sickle cell trait. Sickle cell trait occurs when a person has one gene for sickle hemoglobin and one gene for normal hemoglobin. Unlike sickle cell disease, sickle cell trait does not cause medical problems, but the trait can be passed down. Sickle cell disease primarily affects those of African and Hispanic descents, Middle Eastern, Indian, Latin American, Native American and Mediterranean heritage.
Common Forms of Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle Cell Anemia
This is the most common form of sickle cell disease. Sickle cell anemia is caused by an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S. The red cells contain only hemoglobin S, and no normal hemoglobin A.
Single Cell-Hemoglobin C Disease
The red blood cells contain two abnormal hemoglobins, called hemoglobin S and hemoglobin C.
Sickle Cell-Hemoglobin E Disease
This variation is similar to sickle cell-SC disease, except that an element has been replaced in the hemoglobin molecule. This variation is often also seen in Southeast Asian populations. Some children with hemoglobin E disease are without symptoms. However, under certain conditions, such as exhaustion, hypoxia, severe infection, and/or iron deficiency, some mild to moderate anemia may occur
Hemoglobin S-Beta-Thalassemia
This involves an inheritance of both the thalassemia and sickle cell genes. The disorder produces symptoms of moderate anemia and many of the same conditions associated with sickle cell disease.
Sickle Cell Education & Resources
Protecting Brain Health in Sickle Cell Disease
When most people think about sickle cell disease (SCD), they think about pain crises, fatigue, or the challenges of managing a chronic condition. While these are important parts of living with SCD, there is another area that deserves attention: brain health.
Sickle Cell Mock Clinic: Preparing Teens for Adult Care
Transitioning from pediatric to adult healthcare is a major milestone for any young person. For kids and teens living with sickle cell disease (SCD), the transition can involve learning new skills, taking on more responsibility, and becoming comfortable managing their own healthcare
Sickle Cell Disease & Summer Heat: Staying Safe, Hydrated, and Prepared
As temperatures rise during the summer months, it becomes even more important for people living with sickle cell disease (SCD) to pay close attention to hydration, heat exposure, and overall wellness. Hot weather can place additional stress on the body, and for people with sickle