What is Sickle Cell Anemia Disease (SCAD)?
Sickle cell anemia disease results from red blood cells that, instead of being round, have a shape resembling a farmer's sickle or the new moon. The abnormally shaped "sickled" red blood cells cannot flow well and can block normal blood flow in the circulation. Blocked circulation can lead to acute attacks of intense body pain accompanied by damage to body organs.
Frequently asked questions
You can get sickle cell anemia disease (SCAD) only by inheriting it from both your parents.
SCAD occurs in many different regions of the world, but is most common among people of African, Hispanic, and Middle Eastern descent.
There is no treatment for Sickle Cell Anemia Disease. However, there are many ways by which the potential problems caused by the disease can be reduced. You can get information by consulting with your doctor. In addition, you can research the disease on reliable sites on the web and by using other resources that are available
SCAD can only be inherited. When a baby is born with SCAD, it is already too late to prevent it. The only way SCAD can be prevented is by making sure that you and your partner are not both carriers of the responsible gene. So you must get tested for the gene before you make a decision about having children.
