What is Sickle Cell Disease?

Usually, red blood cells (RBCs) are shaped like round discs. People who have sickle cell disease, though, have RBCs that are shaped like sickles, or crescent moons. This defect can cause painful episodes, serious infections, chronic anemia, and damage to body organs. These complications can vary from person to person depending on which type of sickle cell disease each has. Some people are relatively healthy and others are hospitalized often. But thanks to advancements in early diagnosis and treatment, most kids born with this inherited disorder grow up to live active, healthy, and productive lives. Abstract source