What is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells. Instead of being round and flexible, red blood cells can become hard, sticky, and shaped like a crescent or “sickle.” These abnormal cells can block blood flow, reducing oxygen delivery throughout the body and causing severe pain, organ damage, infections, strokes, and other serious health complications.
Sickle cell disease primarily affects individuals of African, Hispanic, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and South Asian descent. Many people living with sickle cell disease require ongoing blood transfusions as part of their treatment, making a diverse and readily available blood supply critical to their care and quality of life.
Not All Blood Is The Same.
For patients living with sickle cell disease, finding the right blood donor can be life-changing. Black and Hispanic donors are more likely to provide the closely matched blood many patients need to thrive.
Why Diverse Blood Donors Matter
Most people know their blood type. Few realize that blood contains hundreds of additional markers called antigens.
Patients living with sickle cell disease often require frequent transfusions and need blood that closely matches these markers. Because many antigens are inherited, donors from Black and Hispanic communities are more likely to provide compatible blood that helps reduce complications and improve treatment outcomes.
