Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a common inherited blood disorder in the United States, affecting an estimated 70,000 to 100,000 Americans.
The Many Faces of Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease affects people of many racial and ethnic groups. In the United States, 1 in 500 African-American newborns has the disease. Other people affected include Hispanics, people of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern descent, and Asians. In addition, more than 2 million people carry the gene that allows them to potentially pass the disease on to their children.
About Sickle Cell Disease
In sickle cell disease, the red blood cells become hard and sticky and look like a C-shaped farm tool called a “sickle.” The sickle cells die early, which causes a constant shortage of red blood cells. Also, when these blood cells travel through small blood vessels, they get stuck and clog the blood flow. This results in repeated episodes of severe pain, organ damage, serious infections, or anemia.
People with sickle cell disease can live full lives and enjoy most of the activities that other people do. There are things that people with sickle cell disease can do to stay as healthy as possible. Here are some examples:
Get regular checkups. Regular health checkups with a primary care doctor can help prevent some serious problems.
Prevent infections. Common illnesses, like the flu, can quickly become dangerous for a child with sickle cell disease. The best defense is to take simple steps to help prevent infections. See tips to help avoid getting an infection.
Learn healthy habits. People with sickle cell disease should drink 8 to 10 glasses of water every day and eat healthy food. They also should try not to get too hot, too cold, or too tired.
Look for clinical studies. New clinical research studies are happening all the time to find better treatments, and hopefully a cure, for sickle cell disease. People who take part in these studies might have access to new medicines and treatment options.
Get support. Find a patient support group or other organization in your community that can provide information, assistance, and support.