What is Sickle Cell Disease?
SCD is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. Healthy red blood cells are round, and they move through small blood vessels to carry oxygen to all parts of the body. In someone who has SCD, 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 they travel through small blood vessels, they get stuck and clog the blood flow. This can cause pain and other serious problems such as infection, acute chest syndrome and stroke.
Types of SCD
Following are the most common types of SCD:
HbSS
HbSC
HbS beta thalassemia
HbSD, HbSE, and HbSO
Sickle Cell Trait (SCT)
HbAS
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Cause of SCD:
SCD is a genetic condition that is present at birth. It is inherited when a child receives two sickle cell genes—one from each parent.
Diagnosis:
SCD is diagnosed with a simple blood test. It most often is found at birth during routine newborn screening tests at the hospital. In addition, SCD can be diagnosed before birth.
Complications and Treatments
People with SCD start to have signs of the disease during the first year of life, usually around 5 months of age. Symptoms and complications of SCD are different for each person and can range from mild to severe.
There is no single best treatment for all people with SCD. Treatment options are different for each person depending on the symptoms.
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Cure:
The only cure for SCD is bone marrow or stem cell transplant.
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Remember the acronym “BE FAST” to help you identify anyone who might be having a stroke. Balance, Eyes, Face, Arm and Speech Test. Remembering B.E. F.A.S.T. is an easy way to quickly identify the early warning signs of a stroke.
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Mission:
To serve the forgotten and increase awareness of Sickle Cell Disease and Stroke through international mission work, education and research
Vision:
To be a leader and advocate for Sickle Cell Disease and Stroke in global underserved communities