Sickle Cell Disease is one of the most common genetic disorders in the United States primarily affecting African-Americans. In Virginia, Sickle Cell Disease is the most prevalent disorder identified by newborn screening tests. Approximately 75 newborns are identified each year though newborn screening. The screening enables early diagnosis of the disease so that life-prolonging treatment begins in the first few months of life. Sickle Cell Disease primarily affects those of African descent, but also is found in people who trace their ancestry to South and Central America, the Middle East, India, Italy, Greece and Turkey.
Sickle Cell Disease primarily affects those of African descent, but also is found in people who trace their ancestry to South and Central America, the Middle East, India, Italy, Greece and Turkey.
In Virginia, one in 325 babies born to African-American parents is affected by Sickle Cell Disease. It is estimated that more than 155,000 Virginian's have sickle cell trait, meaning they do not have the disease but are carriers of the disorder. When a mother and father both have the sickle cell trait there is a 25 percent chance that their child will have sickle cell disease.
It is estimated that more than 4,000 Virginian's are living with Sickle Cell Disease. Sickle Cell Disease causes red blood cells to function abnormally, becoming rigid and curving into a sickle-like shape. The sickle shape makes it difficult for the cells to pass through tiny blood vessels, resulting in painful blockages that prevent vital oxygen and nutrients in the blood from reaching organs and tissues. These blockages can result in tissue damage, severe recurrent pain, strokes, organ damage and other serious medical complications.
There is no universal cure for sickle cell disease, but new treatments and preventive therapies have improved the life expectancy and quality of life for people with the disorder.
Sickle Cell Awareness Month began in 1975 when the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Inc. and its member organizations began holding events throughout the month to address the needs of the community locally and nationally. September officially became National Sickle Cell Awareness Month when the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution introduced by the Congressional Black Caucus in 1983. Since its official recognition, the month has been dedicated to events that raise awareness and understanding about the disease.
The state health department's Sickle Cell Anemia Programs provide information about the disorder to the public and health care professionals and offers screening, referral, counseling and follow-up services to Virginians at risk for sickle cell disease.
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Contact us at Jene.Radcliffe-Shipman@vdh.virginia.gov
109 Governor St., Richmond, VA 23219
Phone: (804) 864-7769
Fax: (804)864-7771
