African American Health Program

Hope for People with Sickle Cell Disease

In the U.S., one in 365 Black children is born with sickle cell disease (SCD), a hereditary condition where red blood cells are shaped like sickles instead of being round and flexible. These abnormally shaped cells are prone to clumping and blocking blood flow, leading to severe pain, organ damage, and other severe complications, including strokes and anemia.

Now, SCD is entering a groundbreaking era of hope as scientists develop advanced gene therapies to tackle its root cause. A therapy named CRISPR-Cas9 involves editing the mutated gene so that the body can make healthy red blood cells. In addition to gene therapy, new medications are reducing the frequency of painful episodes and improving patients’ quality of life by targeting inflammation and oxygen delivery. These advancements offer more hopeful futures for people with SCD.

AAHP is proud to be part of this movement, launching a new initiative to improve care and support for Black Montgomery County residents with SCD. We invite you to follow this Health Notes series on SCD, where we will explore advancements in treatment, community resources, and the personal stories of those living with SCD. Stay tuned!

Sources:

www.scientificamerican.com/article/new-hope-for-treating-people-with-sickle-cell-disease/

www.fda.gov