What is sickle cell?

Sickle cell disease is the name for a group of inherited health conditions that affect the red blood cells. The most serious type is called sickle cell anaemia.

Sickle cell disease is particularly common in people with an African or Caribbean family background.

People with sickle cell disease produce unusually shaped red blood cells that can cause problems because they do not live as long as healthy blood cells and can block blood vessels.” source: https://www.nhsinform.scot/

“Sickle cell disease is a serious and lifelong health condition, although treatment can help manage many of the symptoms.

Sickle cell disease affects how your body produces red blood cells. Normal red blood cells are round – red blood cells affected by sickle cell disease harden and become sickle-shaped, like a crescent moon. This causes them to die too quickly and block blood vessels, leading to symptoms that are often painful.”

source: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sickle-cell-disease/

Please be aware that just like every other illness, sickle cell affects people differently; some people with sickle cell may feel more pain than others.

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Learn About SickleCell

Global Sickle Cell Awareness Quick Information

Question Answer
What is sickle cell disease? A genetic blood disorder causing red blood cells to become misshapen and break down.
Which part of the body does sickle cell disease primarily affect? The red blood cells and circulatory system.
What shape do red blood cells take in people with sickle cell disease? Sickle or crescent shape.
Which regions have the highest prevalence of sickle cell disease? Sub-Saharan Africa, India, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean.
Is sickle cell disease contagious? No, it is inherited genetically.
What is a common symptom of sickle cell disease? Chronic pain, fatigue, and episodes called “sickle cell crises.”
What is the average life expectancy of someone with sickle cell disease? Varies by region, but modern treatments can extend life into the 40s, 50s, or beyond.
Can sickle cell disease be cured? A bone marrow transplant is currently the only potential cure, but it’s not widely available.
What is sickle cell trait? A condition where a person carries one sickle cell gene but usually does not have symptoms.
What day is World Sickle Cell Awareness Day? June 19th.
Which organ is often damaged by sickle cell disease? The spleen, along with the liver, heart, and kidneys.
What is the primary function of healthy red blood cells? To carry oxygen throughout the body.
Which test is used to diagnose sickle cell disease? Hemoglobin electrophoresis or newborn screening.
What are common treatments for sickle cell disease? Hydroxyurea, pain management, blood transfusions, and folic acid supplements.
How can sickle cell disease affect children’s development? Frequent illness, delayed growth, and learning difficulties due to reduced oxygen supply.
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Sickle Cell Society UK

Doing fantastic work on Sicklecell awareness:

Please visit on Facebook to see the amazing work


Campaign Update: 📣 , Janet Daby MP took a stand, urging the Government to prioritise swift pain relief for sickle cell patients at A&E.

The Minister for Health and Secondary Care has agreed to a meeting with Janet and the Sickle Cell Society to explore ways to enhance patient experiences and ensure timely access to medications. We eagerly anticipate this opportunity.

In Janet’s own words, “…. it has been more than two years since the “No One’s Listening” report, which made the key recommendation that sickle cell patients receive pain relief within 30 minutes of attending accident and emergency. Why is that still not happening for sickle cell patients, and would the Minister like to meet me and the Sickle Cell Society to discuss how to achieve that?”

🤝#PatientAdvocacy#PatientExperience#SickleCellAwareness#HealthcareImprovement

Contains Parliamentary information licensed under the Open Parliament Licence v3.0

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Sade and Chinedu

In the bustling city of Lagos, Nigeria, lived a vibrant teenager named Sade. Sade was a remarkable girl with a zest for life that was infectious. She had an unmistakable charm, a radiant smile, and a personality that could light up even the darkest of days. Yet, Sade carried a secret that only a few close friends and family members knew about – she had sickle cell disease.

Living with sickle cell disease in Nigeria came with its own set of challenges. The disease could bring unpredictable pain crises, fatigue, and other health issues. However, Sade refused to let it define her or limit her dreams, including the pursuit of love.

One sunny afternoon, while at the local library, Sade met a boy named Chinedu. He was tall, had a warm smile, and his laughter was infectious. They struck up a conversation about their favorite books and soon found themselves talking about their dreams and aspirations. Sade had always been open about her condition, and she decided that honesty was the best policy.

“Chinedu,” she began hesitantly, “there’s something I need to tell you. I have sickle cell disease.”

Chinedu looked at her, his expression thoughtful. “Thank you for telling me, Sade. That doesn’t change how I feel about you.”

Their budding romance faced its share of challenges. There were days when Sade felt unwell, and their plans had to be canceled. Chinedu, however, was understanding and supportive. He would bring her ginger tea and tell her stories to make her laugh when the pain was at its worst.

Dating with sickle cell disease meant being mindful of her health. Sade took her medications diligently and made sure Chinedu was aware of the signs of a crisis. Together, they researched and learned how to manage the disease better. Chinedu was always by her side, attending doctor’s appointments and understanding the importance of hydration and rest.

As their relationship deepened, Chinedu and Sade faced another significant milestone – discussing the possibility of a future together. Sade knew that there were higher risks associated with pregnancy for women with sickle cell disease. With a heavy heart, she brought up the topic.

Chinedu listened attentively and then said, “Sade, I love you, and I want a future with you. We can explore adoption or other options. What matters most is that we’re together.”

Their love story continued to flourish. Sade and Chinedu navigated the ups and downs of life in Lagos, supporting each other’s dreams, and building a life together that was filled with love and understanding. Sade’s sickle cell disease was a part of her life, but it did not define her, nor did it limit her capacity to love and be loved.

Their story served as a reminder that love could conquer all obstacles, including the challenges of living with a chronic illness like sickle cell disease, and that true love embraced the person, not just their condition. Sade and Chinedu were living proof that in the colorful tapestry of life, love could be the brightest and most enduring thread of all.

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