In 1973, the lifespan of a person with sickle cell disease (SCD) in the U.S. was only 14 years. Thanks to the dauntless efforts of researchers, scientists, and clinicians, today the prognosis is greatly improved (40-60 years), but there still is no cure. In the United States, approximately 100,000 people have sickle cell disease, and 2 million people have sickle cell trait.
That’s why throughout the month of September, raising awareness for SCD is so important. Each year, the Howard University Center for Sickle Cell Disease leads the charge.
The center was founded by the late Dr. Roland B. Scott in 1971 to address the needs of patients and families in the Washington Metropolitan area affected by SCD. But their work in comprehensive medical care, research, testing, education, counseling, and community outreach.
Throughout Sickle Cell Awareness month, Howard U is hosting a variety of events, including a Sickle Cell Blood and Bone Marrow Drive.
According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, people with SCD have abnormal hemoglobin in their red blood cells which cause it to form a crescent or sickle shape. Red blood cells that contain normal hemoglobin are disc shaped that allows the cells to be flexible and move through large and small blood vessels to deliver oxygen. Sickle-shaped hemoglobin can form stiff rods within the red cell that are not flexible and can stick to vessel walls, causing a blockage that slows or stops the flow of blood. When this happens, oxygen can’t reach nearby tissues.
Bone marrow transplants have been the most effective method of treating this condition, and treatments can manage the symptoms and pain associated with the disease.
