Module 1 | Lesson 1

Understanding the Science Behind Sickle Cell Disease

Welcome to Lesson 1 of Module 1

Estimated time: 20–25 minutes
Main activity: Watch the presentation video and complete the reflection activity

What You Will Learn In This Lesson

This lesson introduces the science behind SCD – what happens inside the blood, why red blood cells change shape, and how this can lead to pain, and other complications.

Watch the Lesson Presentation

Watch the full presentation before moving on to the key learning points and reflection activity. You may want to pause the video at different points to make notes.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

  • Recognise why understanding the science behind sickle cell disease is essential for providing safe, compassionate and effective care.
  • Explain what sickle cell disease is and how it affects the body.
  • Describe the role of haemoglobin and healthy red blood cells.
  • Understand why red blood cells become sickle shaped.
  • Explain how sickling reduces oxygen delivery and causes pain and other complications.

What to Focus On While Watching The Presentation

As you watch, think about:

  • What happens to red blood cells in sickle cell disease.
  • Why sickled cells can block blood flow and similar line lengths.
  • How reduced oxygen affects the body.
  • Why pain can be severe and unpredictable.
  • Why understanding the science matters for professional practice.
Play

Reflection Activity

After watching the video, take a few minutes to reflect.

  • What did this lesson help you understand more clearly about sickle cell disease?
  • How might this knowledge change the way you respond to someone describing sickle cell pain?
  • What is one thing you will take forward into your professional practice?
Complete Reflection Activity

Key Learning Points

1. Sickle cell disease affects haemoglobin

Sickle cell disease affects haemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body.

2. Red blood cells can become sickle-shaped

When red blood cells sickle, they become harder, less flexible and more likely to get stuck in small blood vessels.

3. Blocked blood flow causes pain and complications

When blood flow is blocked, oxygen cannot reach tissues properly. This can cause severe pain and contribute to wider health complications.

4. The impact is whole-body

Sickle cell disease can affect energy levels, organs, mobility, mental wellbeing and day-to-day life.

5. Science supports better care

Understanding the science helps professionals respond with more confidence, empathy and urgency.

Downloadable Resources

Lesson 1 – Summary Sheet

A Glossary of Key Terms

Haemoglobin Quick Guide

Knowledge Check

Complete the short knowledge check before moving to the next lesson.

Start Knowledge Check

Key Takeaways

  • Sickle cell disease affects the shape, flexibility and lifespan of red blood cells.
  • Sickled cells can block blood flow and reduce oxygen delivery.
  • This can cause severe pain, fatigue, anaemia and complications.
  • Understanding the science helps professionals provide safer, more compassionate care.

Continue Your Learning

← Back to Module 1 Overview Continue to Lesson 2 →