The Month of Septemeber!

September is Sickle Cell Awareness and many people are not aware of that. Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects nearly 100,000 people in the United States and this purpose of this month is to  show and highlight Sickle Cell Disease. This month also shines a light on the Sickle Cell Trait.

Many individuals, majority of African Americans, deals with the sickle cell disease. This is where red blood cells are formed into a crescent shape, like a sickle. The sickle-shaped red blood cells break apart easily, causing anemia and other infectious disease. Sickle red blood cells can only live up to 10-20 days instead of the normal 120 days. Sickle cell disease can cause blockage of blood flow and dehydration. Sickle is a underrated disease that many aren't aware of and should be looked into more deeply.

As a person with the sickle trait, I understand how sickle cell works. Sickle cell trait is estimated to affect more than 100 million people worldwide. Sickle cell takes over the body and controls the day to day functions of a human being. This disease or trait is not contagious, however it can be inherited. Based on the photo, one can see how one could be diagnose with the trait or with the full blown disease.

Sickle cell anemia has no widely available cure. Scientists are making progress in the development of new medications that will improve blood flow and help stop the sickling of cells. If you or anyone else is affected by this disease please spread the word and become aware of this major issue.

For more information about sickle cell trait or disease, visit http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/sicklecell/index.html or http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/sca.