Sickle cell disease (SCD) is more than a medical condition — it’s a daily challenge that affects thousands of individuals and families across the country, especially in African American communities. At Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc., Upsilon Chi Chapter, we believe education is the key to awareness, early detection, and compassionate care.
What Is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells.
Healthy red blood cells are round and flexible, moving easily through blood vessels. In people with SCD, the cells become hard and shaped like a crescent or “sickle.”
These sickle-shaped cells can:
- Clump together and block blood flow
- Break down faster than normal cells (causing anemia)
- Cause pain, fatigue, and potential organ damage
How It’s Inherited
Sickle cell disease is passed down when a child receives the sickle cell gene from both parents.
If only one parent passes down the gene, the child has sickle cell trait — which usually doesn’t cause symptoms but can still be passed to future children.
Nurse insight: Knowing your sickle cell status is crucial. A simple blood test can determine if you carry the trait or have the disease.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms can vary, but many people with SCD experience:
- Episodes of severe pain (called pain crises)
- Fatigue and weakness due to anemia
- Swelling in hands and feet
- Frequent infections
- Vision problems
- Delayed growth in children
Nurse insight: Pain crises often require immediate medical attention. Staying hydrated, avoiding extreme temperatures, and managing stress can help reduce episodes.
Complications to Watch For
Over time, sickle cell disease can affect major organs like the heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs.
Blocked blood flow can also increase the risk of stroke, heart disease, and chronic pain.
That’s why routine care and monitoring are essential — including regular doctor visits, vaccinations, and blood tests.
Treatment and Management
While there’s no universal cure, advances in medicine are giving new hope. Treatments include:
- Hydroxyurea (a medication that reduces pain crises and hospitalizations)
- Blood transfusions to reduce sickled cells
- Bone marrow or stem cell transplants (in select cases)
- Healthy lifestyle habits like hydration, rest, and balanced nutrition
Nurse insight: Support from family, community, and faith can make an enormous difference in the quality of life for those living with SCD.
Why Awareness Matters
Sickle cell disease affects about 1 in 365 African American births and 1 in 16,300 Hispanic American births in the U.S. Yet many people still don’t know their carrier status.
Education, screening, and advocacy can lead to earlier diagnosis, better care, and more research for future treatments.
Join Us in Raising Awareness
Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc., Upsilon Chi Chapter, is committed to spreading awareness and supporting families affected by sickle cell disease through education, service, and community partnerships.
Visit our Events Page to learn about upcoming health screenings, awareness campaigns, and educational sessions focused on sickle cell disease and other community health priorities.
Together, we can turn knowledge into action — and hope into healing.