September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, a time to bring attention to the challenges faced by people living with sickle cell disease and the lifesaving role of blood donors in their care. Our Blood Institute is committed to educating the community about this inherited blood disorder and the importance of regular blood donations to support those who rely on transfusions.
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that changes the shape and function of red blood cells. Instead of being round and flexible, red blood cells take on a crescent or “sickle” shape, which makes it harder for them to move through blood vessels. These misshapen cells can cause painful blockages, anemia, organ damage, infections, and even stroke.
Blood transfusions are a major weapon in the fight against sickle cell disease. Regular transfusions can improve oxygen flow, reduce pain, and dramatically improve quality of life for patients. Because sickle cell disease disproportionately affects certain communities, having a diverse blood donor pool is critical to ensure better transfusion matches.
