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Understanding sickle cell
Clear, simple answers for families, students and anyone who wants to know more. Knowledge is the first step to breaking the stigma.
The basics
What is sickle cell disease?
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder. It is passed from parents to children through their genes. You cannot catch it from anyone.
Healthy red blood cells are round and soft, and move easily through blood vessels to carry oxygen around the body. In sickle cell disease, the cells can become hard, sticky and shaped like a crescent or sickle.
These sickle cells can block blood flow, causing sudden severe pain known as a crisis. They also break down faster than healthy cells, which leads to anaemia, tiredness and a higher risk of infection.
Genotypes
What your genotype means
Your genotype is made of two genes, one from each parent. A simple blood test at a hospital or lab tells you yours.
Normal
No sickle cell gene. You cannot pass sickle cell to your children.
Carrier (trait)
Usually healthy, but you can pass the S gene to your children.
Carrier (trait)
Usually healthy, but you can pass the C gene to your children.
Sickle cell anaemia
The most common and often most severe form of sickle cell disease.
Sickle cell disease
A form of sickle cell disease, often milder than SS but still needs care.
Two carriers (for example AS and AS) have a 1 in 4 chance in every pregnancy of a child with sickle cell disease. Know your genotype, and your partner's, before you marry.
Know your genotype
Check before you say “I do”
Choose your genotype and your partner's. Each child inherits one gene from each of you.
A guide, not a diagnosis. Confirm your genotype with a lab test, or at one of our free outreaches.
Emergency signs
Go to hospital immediately if someone with sickle cell has:
- A fever of 38°C or higher
- Severe pain that does not get better with the usual medicine
- Chest pain, a cough or difficulty breathing
- Sudden weakness, numbness, trouble speaking or a drooping face
- Very pale skin or lips, or unusual tiredness
- A swollen, painful belly
- Painful swelling of the hands or feet in a baby
- A painful erection lasting more than 2 hours
Living well
Everyday care that helps prevent a crisis
With good care, many people with sickle cell live full, long and successful lives.
Drink plenty of water
Staying well hydrated keeps blood flowing. Drink more in hot weather and when active.
Avoid extreme temperatures
Very cold water, cold air and overheating can all trigger a crisis. Dress for the weather.
Rest well
Get enough sleep and avoid pushing the body too hard. Take breaks during exercise.
Keep clinic visits
Regular check-ups help doctors spot problems early. Take medicines exactly as prescribed.
Prevent infections
Keep up with vaccinations, wash hands often, sleep under a treated mosquito net and treat fevers quickly.
Look after your mind
Living with pain is hard. Talk to family, friends, a counsellor or other warriors. You are not alone.
Watch and learn
From our outreaches
Myths and facts
Let's break the stigma
MythSickle cell is contagious.
Fact: It is inherited from parents through genes. You cannot catch it by touching, eating with or living with someone who has it.
MythSickle cell is caused by a curse or witchcraft.
Fact: Sickle cell is a genetic condition. It happens when a child inherits a sickle gene from each parent.
MythPeople with sickle cell don't live long.
Fact: With good medical care, many people with sickle cell grow up, go to university, work, marry and live long, full lives.
MythPeople who are AS are sick.
Fact: Carriers (AS) are usually healthy. The trait matters mainly when planning a family with another carrier.
MythHerbs or prayers alone can cure sickle cell.
Fact: There is no herbal cure. A bone marrow transplant can cure some people, and medicines such as hydroxyurea can reduce crises. Always talk to a doctor.
MythYou only need a genotype test before marriage.
Fact: Everyone should know their genotype early, ideally from childhood. It helps with health care and with future family decisions.
This page is for general education and does not replace advice from a doctor.
