Symptoms
What is a common sign of sickle cell disease that causes extreme tiredness?
Anemia – Extreme tiredness due to a shortage of red blood cells.
What gene mutation causes sickle cell disease?
HBB gene mutation – A genetic mutation that leads to sickle cell disease.
What medication is used to reduce pain crises in sickle cell patients?
Hydroxyurea – A medication used to reduce pain crises.
Which Grammy-winning TLC member has publicly spoken about her struggles with sickle cell disease?
Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins – Grammy-winning singer from TLC.
What shape do sickle cells take?
Sickle-shaped – Red blood cells take on a crescent shape instead of being round.
What painful event occurs when sickle cells block blood flow?
Pain crises – Episodes of severe pain caused by blocked blood flow.
What type of hemoglobin is abnormal in sickle cell disease?
Hemoglobin S – The abnormal type of hemoglobin responsible for sickle-shaped cells.
What procedure can be a potential cure but is not widely available?
Bone marrow transplant – A potential cure for sickle cell disease but not widely available.
Which legendary jazz musician lived with sickle cell disease?
Miles Davis – Legendary jazz musician.
How is sickle cell disease inherited?
Passed from parents – Inherited through an autosomal recessive pattern.
How does sickle cell disease affect the growth of children?
Delayed growth – Lack of oxygen slows development in children.
How is sickle cell disease passed from parents to children?
Autosomal recessive inheritance – The disease is passed down when a child inherits two copies of the mutated gene.
What treatment helps increase the number of normal red blood cells in patients?
Blood transfusions – Increase the number of normal red blood cells.
Which member of The Temptations battled sickle cell disease?
Paul Williams – Singer from The Temptations.
What ethnic groups are most affected by sickle cell disease?
Most common in African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian populations – More prevalent in these ethnic groups.
What problem can sickle cell disease cause in the eyes?
Vision problems – Blocked blood flow can damage the retina.
What does "autosomal recessive" mean in genetics?
Genetic inheritance – Sickle cell disease is inherited from parents.
What type of care helps prevent infections in sickle cell patients?
Preventive care – Vaccinations and antibiotics help prevent infections.
What NFL player has sickle cell trait?
Geno Atkins – NFL player.
Which organ is most affected by sickle cell disease?
Spleen – One of the most affected organs in sickle cell disease.
How does sickle cell disease affect the hands and feet?
Swelling – Hands and feet may swell due to circulation issues.
Can a person have only one copy of the sickle cell gene and still show symptoms?
Yes – A person with one copy of the gene has sickle cell trait and may show mild symptoms.
What lifestyle changes can help manage sickle cell disease?
Healthy lifestyle – Staying hydrated, avoiding extreme temperatures, and managing stress can help control symptoms.
Name one way famous individuals have raised awareness about sickle cell disease.
Raising awareness – Many public figures have spoken out, raised funds, or shared their experiences to educate others about the disease.
What month is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month?
September – National Sickle Cell Awareness Month.