Sickle Cell Disease

WHAT IS SICKLE CELL DISEASE?

• Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in the U.S.

• It primarily affects African-Americans (1 in 365) and Hispanic Americans (1 in 16,300).

• Red blood cells become rigid and shaped like crescent moons (sickle). This causes the cells to stick together, blocking blood from flowing normally.

• It is a chronic condition that can cause severe pain, organ damage, and even stroke.

• A person with Sickle Cell Disease can become more likely to get infections because the sickle-shaped cells eventually clog vital organs and blood passages.

• For many battling Sickle Cell Disease, only blood transfusions can provide relief from the pain and complications that occur during a sickle cell crisis (a severe attack).

HOW YOU CAN HELP.

Although blood type or compatibility is not generally based on race, select rare blood types that are more generally found in African-Americans are needed to support patients with Sickle Cell Disease. Nationally, the number of African-Americans who need blood transfusions exceeds the number of African-Americans who donate blood. Regular blood donations by African-Americans will support individuals with Sickle Cell Disease in our community.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND REFERENCES

American Sickle Cell Anemia Association

Sickle Cell Disease Association of America

U.S. Food and Drug Administration Sickle Cell Disease Fact Sheet