Sickle Cell 101

WHAT IS SICKLE CELL?

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen through the body. People with two copies of a mutated gene produce misshapen, sickle-shaped red blood cells. These cells stick together, die early, and block blood flow—causing pain (sickle cell crises) and a shortage of healthy red blood cells.

What Problems Does It Cause?
Symptoms often begin in the first year of life and vary in severity. Common complications include:

• Acute chest syndrome: Blocked lung vessels causing chest pain, cough, fever, and shortness of breath.

• Anemia: Fewer healthy red blood cells, leading to fatigue and weakness.

• Swelling of hands and feet: Caused by blocked blood flow.

• Vision problems: Damaged eye vessels.

• Infections: A weakened immune system increases infection risk.

• Organ damage: Blockages can damage the brain, lungs, kidneys, spleen, and other organs.

• Pain episodes: Sudden, intense pain due to restricted blood flow.

Sickle cell disease shortens life expectancy. While 95% of U.S. newborns with the disease now survive to adulthood, average life expectancy is still shorter—55 years for women and 49.3 for men, compared to 78 years in the general population. Some people, known as "golden warriors," live into their 70s.