Affects of Sickle Cell Disease in the African American community

BOWLING GREEN, KY.- According to the CDC, about 90,000 non-Hispanic Black or African American people in the United States have sickle cell disease. Outside the U.S., the condition is more common in Africa and the Middle East. The disease affects red blood cells and can lead to a variety of life-altering symptoms.

Dr. Diego Cabrera, a physician in the Division of Hematology and Oncology, said, “Sickle cell disease is very prevalent. Around the world, in the United States, there are about 100,000 people living with sickle cell disease. More commonly, though, people have sickle cell traits. So what does that mean?”

Sickle cell disease is inherited. People with the trait may show no symptoms, but those with the full disease often experience symptoms throughout their lives.

Cabrera explained, “Sickle cell disease is a problem with the shape of your red blood cells, which go from their circular shape to the sickle shape. That form of red blood cell is unstable, and in situations of stress such as dehydration, very cold temperatures, viral infections or other illnesses, patients can experience complications.”

When triggered, the disease can cause anemia because the red blood cells break down. But it doesn’t stop there.

“They start developing what we call a pain crisis, which is the most challenging feature of sickle cell disease,” Cabrera said. “Pain crises vary from patient to patient. Some patients experience them more frequently, some more intensely.”

Doctors are currently focused on treating sickle cell disease and managing its symptoms. For more information, visit the CDC website.