At a glance
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of inherited blood disorders that affects millions of people throughout the world, including an estimated 100,000 people in the United States. These resources highlight the diverse identities of those living with SCD, provide insight into their complex healthcare needs, and discuss why it's important for African Americans to give blood to help people with sickle cell disease stay healthy.
Videos
Sickle Cell Has Many Faces
Did you know that sickle cell disease (SCD) affects millions of people throughout the world? Although SCD is most common among African Americans in the United States, it can also affect Hispanics and people whose ancestors come from countries in South Asia (such as India), southern Europe (such as Greece and Italy), and the Middle East (such as Saudi Arabia and Lebanon).
A Message for Healthcare Providers: Sickle Cell Has Many Faces
The misunderstanding that sickle cell disease (SCD) only affects African Americans may lead to delays in treatment for some patients. It's important for healthcare providers, community workers, policy makers, and other SCD supporters to know that SCD affects diverse groups, so that all people with SCD can be properly diagnosed and treated.
Stepping Up: Kevin's Decision (Part 1)
Transition from pediatric to adult care can be a challenging time for people with SCD because their health often gets worse during this time. Kevin shares how he took more ownership over his health when making the decision to get back on hydroxyurea, the main medicine for complications related to SCD.
Check out the transition toolkit »
Stepping Up: Calvanay's Advice (Part 2)
Transition from pediatric to adult care can be a challenging time for people with SCD because their health often gets worse during this time. Calvanay shares her advice about preparing to take on more responsibility for your health and health care during transition.
Check out the transition toolkit »
Sickle Cell Disease: When to Transfuse
Learn about indications for blood transfusion in patients with sickle cell disease, the complications associated with these transfusions, and how you can help reduce the risk for these complications in your patients.
Blood Donations Needed Among African Americans. Give Blood, Save a Life
Watch an animated graphic about minority blood donations.
Sickle Cell Disease: Give Blood, Save a Life (American Sign Language)
This video shares why it's important for African Americans to give blood to help people with sickle cell disease stay healthy.