Today, June 19th is The World #Sickle_Cell Day
Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited blood disorders that affect hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Normally, red blood cells are disc-shaped and flexible, allowing them to move easily through blood vessels.
In sickle cell disease, an abnormal form of hemoglobin causes red blood cells to become stiff and sticky, that can block blood flow, causing pain, tissue damage, and other complications.
The symptoms of SCD can vary from person to person, but they can include:
🔸Painful episodes (called pain crises)
🔸Fatigue
🔸Shortness of breath
🔸Frequent infections
🔸Delayed growth
🔸Delayed puberty
SCD is a lifelong condition, but recently a new gene-edited therapy known as #Casgevy has been approved by the SFDA - هيئة الغذاء والدواء that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.
#Sicklecelldisease
MD | Internist | Nephrologist | Digital Health.
9moVery nice post! PS: I am a nephrologist.