World Sickle Cell Day 2024: Understanding The Disease
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19 June 2024
World Sickle Cell Day, observed every year on June 19, aims to raise awareness of sickle cell disorders
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Sickle cell anemia or sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder in which the red blood cells are shaped abnormally, resembling a sickle
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These sickle-shaped cells become rigid and sticky, affecting blood flow in the body. This can cause pain and tissue damage in the body
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The disease is caused by problem in haemoglobin-beta gene that is found on chromosome 11. This is the defect which results in abnormal shape of haemoglobin
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Symptoms of sickle cell anemia can vary from person to person. The symptoms usually first appear around 6 months of age and may change over time
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Patients with sickle cell disorder suffer from anemia as their red blood cells die easily leading to shortage of healthy cells
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They might also experience excessive fatigue, jaundice, swelling in hands and feet, pain in chest, back, arm or leg, frequent infections and vision-related issues
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Who is at risk? If both the parents carry a sickle cell gene, the baby might have this condition
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Sickle cell disease makes normal life difficult and patients need regular blood transfusions
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People with sickle cell disorder should have regular checkups with their doctor and follow treatment and medications prescribed by them