Sickle Cell disease
Disease Overview
Genetics
Screening
Survival
People with sickle cell disease may have long term complications that impact their health, quality of life, and long term survival. With comprehensive disease management and consistent follow-up medical care, the overall life expectancy has improved.
Please see our pages for signs and symptoms and treatment options for additional information about sickle cell disease.
- Sickle cell disease (SCD) or Sickle cell anemia (SCA), is a genetic blood disorder that primarily affects those of African descent and Hispanics of Caribbean ancestry, and can also be found in those with Middle Eastern, Indian, Latin American, Native American and Mediterranean heritage.
- It has been estimated that 75-85,000 people in the US are affected by the disease. Millions worldwide suffer complications from sickle cell disease.
- It's a disease characterized by red blood cells shaped like crescent moons (see photo above), instead of round blood cells. Sickle shaped cells can not carry enough oxygen to the rest of the body. Sickle shaped cells can slow or block the flow of blood through blood vessels and this can be painful and lead to other long-term complications. SCD is characterized by chronic vaso-occlusive complications, multiple organ dysfunction, and premature death. Learn more about Sickle Cell Disease here.
Genetics
- Sickle cell disease is inherited, meaning it is passed from parents to children.
- People who inherit one sickle cell gene and one normal gene have sickle cell trait. People with sickle cell trait usually do not have any of the symptoms of sickle cell disease (SCD), but they can pass the trait on to their children.
- If both parents have sickle cell trait, then there is a one in four (25%) chance that their child will have sickle cell disease.
- For more information about the genetics of sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease, please visit the Center for Disease Control.
Screening
- Screening can be done to identify whether someone has sickle cell trait or sickle cell disease. Usually this test is done shortly after birth as part of the state required newborn screening. Testing for certain conditions early in the baby's life can help prevent many potentially serious complications. Each state tests for a slightly different list of conditions, please ask your child's doctor if you have questions about sickle cell disease.
- The test can be done at other ages as well. A blood sample would be required. Please talk with your doctor if you wish to have this testing performed.
Survival
People with sickle cell disease may have long term complications that impact their health, quality of life, and long term survival. With comprehensive disease management and consistent follow-up medical care, the overall life expectancy has improved.
Please see our pages for signs and symptoms and treatment options for additional information about sickle cell disease.
Medical Disclaimer: The pages on this web site are for education and informational purposes only. Do not use this material to diagnose or treat a health problem; it is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you have concerns about a health problem, consult your doctor. This site is not meant as a substitute for the important healthcare discussions that should occur between an individual and their medical team. No liabiity is assumed by the Haplo SCD Consortium for any damages resulting from use or access to information posted on this website.