06/19/2026
Today is World Sickle Cell Disease Day. Sickle Cell Disease is a disorder that affects the shape of red blood cells, and it can be devastating for those who suffer from it.
Normal red blood cells contain hemoglobin A, which carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. People with sickle cell disease have red blood cells that contain mostly hemoglobin S, which causes the red blood cells to change from the round shape to a banana or “sickle” shape. Some complications from sickle cell disease include:
• infections
• painful swelling of hands and feet
• fatigue
• stroke
• organ damage
• pain
Sickle Cell Disease is genetic, but advances are being made in treatment. You can learn more here: https://www.sicklecelldisease.org/