Sickle Cell Disease (also known as Sickle Cell Disorder or Sickle Cell Anaemia) is an inherited condition that affects the red blood cells and can lead to episodes of severe pain or can damage organs and tissues, and may lead to other serious medical problems.

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) mostly affects people of African and African Caribbean origin, but the condition has been known to affect individuals of any ethnicity.

Most people living with Sickle Cell Disease spend 90%- 95% of their time living in the community. However, Sickle Cell Disease can be a life threatening condition, so that stays in hospital and the intervention of medical professionals are also important in an affected person’s life. But more emphasis on community management, care and support structures can greatly help those affected and those that care for them.

Want to know what causes sickle cell and what the symptoms are?