Sickle Cell Disease Resources
Learn more about sickle cell disease through educational videos, myths vs facts, and frequently asked questions.
Learn more about sickle cell disease through educational videos, myths vs facts, and frequently asked questions.
Watch this informative video on sickle cell disease from a trusted source.
Fact: While it is more common in people of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian descent, it can affect anyone.
Fact: With proper management, many people with SCD lead full, active lives and can participate in sports and other activities.
Fact: SCD is a genetic disorder, not an infectious disease. It cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Fact: Sickle cell trait (having one sickle gene) usually doesn't cause symptoms, but two copies cause sickle cell disease.
Fact: It's one of the most common genetic disorders worldwide, affecting millions of people globally.
Fact: Many people with SCD have healthy children, especially with proper genetic counseling and planning.
Fact: It can also cause anemia, infections, organ damage, stroke, and other serious complications.
Fact: Treatments include medications like hydroxyurea, blood transfusions, stem cell transplants, and pain management.
Fact: Trait carriers usually don't have symptoms but can pass the gene to children, who may develop the disease if they inherit two copies.
Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders that affect hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen through the body. It causes red blood cells to become hard and sticky, leading to blockages in blood vessels.
Common symptoms include pain episodes (crises), anemia, infections, delayed growth, and vision problems. Symptoms vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe.
Diagnosis is typically done through newborn screening, blood tests, or genetic testing. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing the disease effectively.
While there is no complete cure yet, treatments like hydroxyurea, blood transfusions, and stem cell transplants can manage symptoms. Research into gene therapy and cures is ongoing.
It's inherited when a child receives two sickle cell genes, one from each parent. If both parents carry the trait, there's a 25% chance their child will have SCD.
Crises are often triggered by dehydration, infection, stress, extreme temperatures, or low oxygen levels. They can cause severe pain and require immediate medical attention.
While the disease itself can't be prevented, early screening and genetic counseling can help families make informed decisions. Prenatal testing is available for at-risk pregnancies.
Staying hydrated, avoiding extreme temperatures, regular exercise, healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and getting regular medical check-ups are all important for managing SCD.
Yes, there are many support groups and organizations that provide resources, counseling, and community for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease.