World Sickle Cell Awareness Day 2023: The annual observance of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day on June 19 seeks to increase public awareness and understanding of sickle cell disease (SCD), as well as the difficulties faced by patients, their families, and carers. Sickle cell disease is the most prevalent inherited blood disorder. Yes, sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that affects approximately 100,000 Americans. It affects millions of individuals globally and is most prevalent in Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Arabian Peninsula. Therefore, what is sickle cell disease and what are the treatments for the disease? Let’s discover more.
HISTORY OF WORLD SICKLE CELL AWARENESS DAY
For those unfamiliar with sickle cell disease, we will explain it in straightforward terms. Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder caused by the inheritance of sickle cell traits from both parents. The disease causes red blood cells to’sickle’ or become banana-shaped under stress, which can hinder their ability to travel through blood vessels.
Normally, our red blood cells are round and flexible, allowing them to move readily through blood arteries. However, in sickle cell disease, some of the cells transform into crescent moon shapes and adhere to blood vessels. As a result, blood flow through blood vessels slows or ceases, causing pain, organ damage, and potentially a stroke. Patients with sickle cell disease are also susceptible to complications such as stroke, acute chest syndrome, blindness, bone degeneration, and excruciating penile erections.
Over time, this disease can cause damage to vital organs including the liver, kidney, lungs, heart, and spleen, which can result in mortality. Primarily, sickle cell disease is treated by preventing and treating complications. Bone marrow transplant is the only viable treatment for the disorder. However, even this treatment is only available to a restricted number of affected patients who have access to a suitable donor. Also prescribed by doctors is a medication known as Hydroxyurea, which has been shown to significantly reduce pain. The Sickle Cell Society encourages everyone to participate in this annual campaign to raise awareness about sickle cell disease and sickle cell characteristics on this day.
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5 DEADLY FACTS ABOUT SICKLE CELL DISEASE
Anaemia can be fatal for patients.
The majority of patients with sickle cell disease suffer from significant anaemia and require blood transfusions.
It requires specialised exams
Blood tests are required to corroborate the presence of the disease.
Problems with breathing can occur.
Respiratory difficulties are extremely prevalent in children with sickle cell disease.
Transplants of bone marrow carry with them a risk
A bone marrow transplant may not be the optimal treatment for all patients due to the associated risk.
A nutritious diet can aid
Helpful habits include consuming eight glasses of water every day.
WORLD SICKLE CELL AWARENESS DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | June 19 | Monday |
| 2024 | June 19 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | June 19 | Thursday |
| 2026 | June 19 | Friday |
| 2027 | June 19 | Saturday |
