September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month designated to help focus attention on the need for research and treatment of Sickle Cell disease.

In 1975, the National Association for Sickle Cell disease, Inc. created a series of awareness campaigns. In 1976, they launched a national awareness month in September amid growing concerns about the amount of misinformation available about Sickle Cell. The foundation aimed to dispel myths and provide educations about Sickle Cell. Along with its co-founder, Dr. Charles F. Whitten, who pioneered advancements in understanding the condition and improving treatment, the organization made great strides in bringing information to the general public. Together, they also increased opportunities for research and more accessible screening methods.

Since then, the organization continues to pursue research, treatments, and a cure under the name Sickle Cell Disease Association of America.

The SCDAA tradition of selecting a national poster child (now called the Child Ambassador Contest) from local candidates began in 1976 with President Gerald Ford greeting the first winner (8-year-old Bridgete Earby of Oakland, California) at the White House. Presidents Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton and Obama have also greeted the national poster child.

Then in 1983, the Congressional Black Caucus of the House of Representatives passed a resolution. It asked President Ronald Reagan to proclaim September National Sickle Cell Anemia Awareness Month. The President signed Proclamation 5102 in September of 1983.

The annual observance provides an opportunity to increase public knowledge and an understanding of sickle cell disease and traits. Also, the month addresses the challenges experienced by patients, their families, and caregivers. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates sickle-cell disease affects nearly 100 million people worldwide, and over 300 000 children are born every year with the condition.

10 Things You Should Know About Sickle Cell

• Sickle Cell disease is the most common genetic blood disorder in the country.
• It affects almost all races, not just African Americans.
• You can’t “catch it”- you’re born with it.
• Sickle Cell Anemia is the most common form of sickle cell disease.
• Blood tests called “Hemoglobin Electrophoresis and CBC” are needed to determine whether you have Sickle Cell trait or a related red blood cell disorder.
• Sickle Cell disease causes red blood cells to become hard and “sickle” or banana shaped which makes them block the flow of blood.
• Blocked blood vessels cause pain, damage to organs and tissue, or even a stroke.
• Some people with Sickle Cell Anemia need frequent blood transfusions.
• You can help by becoming a blood or bone marrow donor.
• The only cure for Sickle Cell disease is a bone marrow transplant.

HOW TO OBSERVE #SickleCellAwarenessMonth

Be a Sickle Cell fighter by making an appointment to give blood. Donating blood can save a life, somebody like me with Sickle Cell Anemia. I would encourage anybody healthy to donate blood. You never know who you’re saving.

Spread the Word on Social Media. Please tag SCDAA in your social media posts so we can share your events and happenings during the month of September!

#SickleCellMatters
#SickleCellAwarenessMonth
#SCDAA2020AwarenessMonth
#SCDSCTMatters