Genetic Disorder Awareness

Understanding Sickle Cell Anemia

The Genetic Basis

From Round to Rigid

Simulation Guide

What to look for:

  • 1. Healthy Mode: Cells are pink circles. Flow is smooth.
  • 2. Sickle Mode: Toggle switch. Cells become red crescents.
  • 3. Blockage: Sickle cells get stuck and clump, causing pain.

What exactly happens?

Normal blood contains Hemoglobin A (HbA), which keeps cells soft. In Sickle Cell, a gene mutation creates Hemoglobin S (HbS). When oxygen is low, HbS forms stiff rods inside the cell, forcing it into a "sickle" or crescent shape.

Microscopic View

🧬 How do you get it?

SCA is not contagious. It is inherited from parents. A simple blood test can reveal if you are a carrier.

  • Trait (AS): One gene from one parent. You are a carrier but usually healthy.
  • Disease (SS): Genes from BOTH parents. You have the disease.

Diagnosis Tests

Solubility Test HPLC (Gold Standard) Electrophoresis

Mission 2047: India's Goal

India has the second-highest burden of SCA globally, especially in tribal belts. The government has launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission to eradicate it by 2047.

7 Cr+ Screenings
Free Genetic Cards

🤕 Symptoms & Complications

Acute (Sudden)

  • Vaso-Occlusive Crisis: Extreme pain in bones.
  • Acute Chest Syndrome: Fever, chest pain, breathing trouble.
  • Priapism: Painful, prolonged erection.

Chronic (Long-term)

  • Anemia: Fatigue, pale skin (Jaundice).
  • Organ Damage: Kidneys, liver, and spleen issues.
  • Leg Ulcers: Sores that don't heal easily.

In Children

  • Dactylitis: Swollen, painful hands/feet.
  • Infections: Higher risk of pneumonia/meningitis.
  • Delayed Growth: Slower puberty and height gain.

Management: The 3 Pillars

💧

Hydration & Diet

Drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Eat high-protein diet. Take Folic Acid.

💊

Medication

Hydroxyurea reduces crisis frequency. Vaccines (Pneumococcal) prevent infections.

🌡️

Trigger Avoidance

Avoid extreme cold/heat, high altitudes, and heavy physical exertion.

Myth Busters

Myth: It is a curse or contagious.

Fact: No. It is purely a genetic blood disorder passed from parents.

Myth: Patients die very young.

Fact: With proper care and Hydroxyurea, patients can live long, productive lives.

Myth: Iron supplements cure it.

Fact: Danger! SCA is not iron-deficiency anemia. Extra iron can damage organs.