World Sickle Cell Day is an annual event observed on June 19, aimed at raising awareness about sickle cell disease and advocating for the rights of people affected by it. The day also aims to promote early diagnosis, access to treatment, and better quality of life for people affected by the disease. In this article, we have discussed the causes, types, symptoms, and treatment of sickle cell disease.
When we spoke to Dr Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director and Chief BMT, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, about sickle cell disease, he said, “Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that affects the oxygen-carrying red blood cells in our body. Normally, these cells are round and flexible, allowing them to move easily through blood vessels. But in SCD, a genetic mutation makes them sickle-shaped, like a crescent.”
Types of sickle cell disease:
There are different types of SCD, but the most common is sickle cell anemia. Others include sickle-hemoglobin C disease and sickle beta-thalassemia. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the type.
What causes sickle cell disease?
SCD is passed from parents to children. If you inherit two copies of the abnormal gene, one from each parent, you get the disease. Inheriting only one copy (sickle cell trait) does not cause SCD, but it can be passed on to future generations.
Symptoms of sickle cell disease:
- Painful events (crises) due to blocked blood flow
- Fatigue from lack of oxygen to the tissues
- Frequent infections
- Difficulty in breathing
- Delayed development in children
Treatment of sickle cell disease:
There's no cure for SCD yet, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:
- Pain relief in times of crisis
- folic acid supplements to promote healthy red blood cell production
- antibiotics to prevent infection
- Blood transfusion in severe cases
- Hydroxyurea is a medicine that can reduce the frequency of seizures.
Although SCD is a lifelong challenge, with proper treatment and care, people with SCD can lead active and satisfying lives.
Also read: World Blood Donor Day 2024: Common misconceptions related to blood donation