 Sickle cell anemia, a type of sickle cell disease, is an inherited blood disorder that alters the shape of red blood cells, impacting their ability to carry oxygen. This condition is caused by a genetic mutation in the hemoglobin gene, making red blood cells rigid and misshapen. For a child to have sickle cell anemia (SS), both parents must pass on the sickle cell gene. If only one parent carries the gene, the child will have the sickle cell trait, making them a carrier without symptoms, (AS). Carriers can, however, pass the gene to their children.
Symptoms of sickle cell anemia typically start around six months of age and can include anemia, pain episodes, swelling, infections, delayed growth, and vision problems. The number of people living with this disease has significantly increased from 5.46 million in 2000 to 7.74 million in 2021. June 19 has been set aside globally as World Sickle Cell Awareness Day. It is aimed at raising awareness and understanding of the disease and the challenges faced by patients and their families. The theme of this year's World Sickle Cell Awareness Day as announced by The Global Alliance of Sickle Cell Disease Organizations (GASCDO) is tagged: Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally and it emphasizes the advancements in research and ongoing efforts to improve care. Organizations like the Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria (SCFN) are leading efforts to support those with sickle cell disorder in Nigeria. It's crucial to combat stigma and misinformation, recognizing that people with sickle cell disease deserve respect and inclusion in society. Sickle cell disease is not contagious, and the people should not be treated less than humans. Necessary measures should also be taken to combat this disease including taking the necessary blood tests before getting married. Let's work together to save the lives of our generation by being aware of this disorder and how to prevent it. Let us unite on World Sickle Cell Awareness Day to promote hope and progress in the fight against sickle cell disease. Source: Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies
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