SICKLE CELL ANAEMIA

June 19, 2019

The World Sickle Cell Day is being observed on June 19, 2019. It is observed each year to raise public awareness about the sickle cell disease and its treatment methods.

About:

  • It is characterized by a modification in the shape of the red blood cell from a smooth, donut-shape into a crescent or half-moon shape.

  • These cells lack plasticity and can block small blood vessels, impairing blood flow. This condition leads to shortened red blood cell survival, and subsequent anaemia, often called sickle-cell anaemia.

  • This leads to chronic acute pain syndromes, severe bacterial infections, and necrosis (tissue death).

  • Regions where it more common:

  • Treatment: it can be managed by simple procedures including:
    • high fluid intake

    • healthy diet

    • folic acid/Iron supplementation

    • pain medication

    • vaccination and antibiotics for the prevention and treatment of infections

    • a number of other therapeutic measures.