Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a complex genetic disorder. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions surrounding SCD. Such misinformation needs to be dispelled in order to make informed decisions about treatment.

Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders characterized by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, called hemoglobin S. When a person has SCD, their blood cells become hard, sticky, and sickle-shaped. These sickle-shaped cells can block blood flow, causing pain and possible complications. Symptoms of SCD can vary from person to person. Some of them include, weakness, swelling, vision problems, frequent infections, delayed growth.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a complex genetic disorder. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions surrounding SCD. Such misinformation needs to be dispelled in order to make informed decisions about treatment. Dr. Vinay Munikoti Venkatesh, Consultant – Pediatric Hematology Oncology & BMT, Manipal Hospital Yesvantpur spoke to India.com and shared the prevailing myths and facts about SCD.

Common misconceptions about sickle cell disease

Understanding 1: Sickle cell disease is a single disease with definite signs and symptoms.

Fact: Sickle cell disease is not a single entity. It is a group of disorders that includes sickle cell anemia (HbSS), sickle-hemoglobin C disease (HbSC), and sickle beta-thalassemia (HbSβ-thal); Sickle cell anemia is the most severe form. Each type has different genetic variations and symptoms.

Acknowledgment 2: There is no difference between sickle cell symptoms and sickle cell disease

Fact: No. Sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease are not the same. In sickle cell trait (SCT) a person inherits only one sickle cell gene while the other gene is normal. Usually, SCT does not cause symptoms of the disease. On the other hand, in sickle cell disease (SCD) a person inherits two sickle cell genes, one from each parent, which causes sickle-shaped red blood cells that can lead to various health complications, some of which can be serious.

Acknowledgment 3: Blood transfusions are the only treatment for SCD

Fact: One of the treatments for severe forms of sickle cell anemia is blood transfusion. However, the availability of better treatments has significantly reduced the need for blood transfusions. Hydroxyurea is now an integral part of treatment for SCD. For severe cases of sickle cell anemia, recent innovations including BMT and gene therapy have revolutionized treatment. For pain management we have several pain medications that almost guarantee pain free episodes in sickle cell patients. Many researches are ongoing, including gene therapy and new drugs, raising new hopes and promises for managing the disease.

Acknowledgment 4: Sickle cell disease only causes pain

Fact: Pain is a major symptom of SCD, but the disease affects many organs and systems in the body. This can lead to complications such as anemia, stroke, acute chest syndrome, infections, organ damage, and delayed growth in children. The impact of SCD goes beyond pain, requiring a holistic approach to managing its various manifestations.

Acknowledgment 5: Sickle cell disease significantly reduces life expectancy

Fact: While SCD can affect life expectancy, advances in medical care have improved outcomes significantly. With proper management, many individuals with SCD can live into their 50s or beyond. Comprehensive care, regular check-ups and new treatments have increased the quality of life and longevity of those affected.