Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that affects red blood cells. It is not contagious; it cannot be spread from person to person through casual contact, respiratory droplets, or bodily fluids. This condition is inherited from parents through specific genes, making it distinct from infectious diseases like a cold or the flu.
Understanding Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is a genetic condition that impacts hemoglobin, the protein within red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. In individuals with this condition, a genetic change in the HBB gene leads to the production of an atypical hemoglobin, known as hemoglobin S. This abnormal hemoglobin causes red blood cells to become rigid, sticky, and take on a crescent or “sickle” shape, unlike the typical round and flexible red blood cells.
These sickled cells have a shorter lifespan than healthy red blood cells, which normally live for about 120 days, whereas sickled cells may only survive 10 to 20 days. This reduced lifespan results in a shortage of red blood cells, leading to anemia. Furthermore, the stiff, sickle-shaped cells can get stuck in small blood vessels, blocking blood flow and preventing oxygen from reaching tissues and organs. This blockage can cause episodes of severe pain, organ damage, and other complications.
How Sickle Cell is Inherited
Sickle cell disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning a child must receive a copy of the altered gene from each parent to develop the condition. If a person inherits only one copy of the altered gene (sickle cell gene) and one normal gene, they have what is known as sickle cell trait. Individuals with sickle cell trait typically do not experience symptoms of sickle cell disease but are carriers who can pass the gene to their children.
When both parents carry the sickle cell trait, there is a 25% chance with each pregnancy that their child will inherit two copies of the altered gene and therefore have sickle cell disease. There is also a 50% chance that their child will inherit one altered gene and one normal gene, becoming a carrier of the sickle cell trait. Finally, there is a 25% chance that the child will inherit two normal genes and neither have the disease nor be a carrier. This inheritance pattern clarifies why the condition appears in families rather than spreading like an infection.
Living with Sickle Cell
Individuals with sickle cell disease can participate fully in daily life without fear of transmitting it to others. Physical contact, sharing food or drinks, or being in close proximity to someone with sickle cell disease poses no risk of transmission. People with sickle cell disease can attend school, work, and engage in social activities just like anyone else.
While living with sickle cell disease can present challenges, advancements in treatment and management allow many individuals to lead full lives. Managing symptoms often involves regular medical check-ups and adherence to prescribed treatments.