NATIONAL SICKLE CELL AWARENESS MONTH

NATIONAL SICKLE CELL AWARENESS MONTH

National Sickle Cell Awareness Month in September shines a spotlight on a condition affecting millions of people worldwide. The annual observance provides an opportunity to increase public knowledge and an understanding of sickle cell disease and traits.

#Sickle Cell Awareness Month

Sickle cell disease can occur in all races but is most common in African-Americans and Hispanics. This awareness 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.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of blood disorders typically inherited from a person’s parents. The most common type is known as sickle cell anemia (SCA). It results in an abnormality in the oxygen-carrying protein hemoglobin found in red blood cells.

HOW TO OBSERVE #Sickle Cell Awareness Month

Learn more from the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America website.

Donate money to combat the disease. Use #SickleCellAwarenessMonth to share and follow on social media.

NATIONAL SICKLE CELL AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY

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.

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.