Sickle Cell Disease (SDC) is an inherited blood disorder which is estimated to affect between 1-3 million Americans. It disproportionality effects those of African & Caribbean descent, with between 8-10% of African Americans impacted.
SDC results in abnormal, crescent-shaped red blood cells. Main symptoms include painful episodes, heightened risk of infections and anaemia.
Painful episodes occur when blood vessels in a part of the body become blocked, this pain can be severe and last for anywhere between a few days, to weeks. Painful episodes can effect patients differently, with some experiencing episodes each week, and others fewer than once a year.
Patients with SDC are more vulnerable to infections, ranging from colds to potentially life threatening.
Nearly all patients with SDC have anaemia this is where the haemoglobin in the blood is low. Some consequent symptoms of this would be infection with virus which causes slapped cheek syndrome. Patients are also likely to experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and prone to fainting.
Treatment of SDC can be challenging, a blood and bone marrow transplant is the only cure for some patients who have the disease. Treatment prior to this is likely to include pain medication, antibiotics, dietary supplements, and blood transfusions.
Clinical trials play a crucial role in advancing the understanding and treatment of sickle cell disease. These SDC trials aim to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new interventions; drugs, therapies, or procedures, for individuals with SDC.
A quick search of clinicaltrials.gov show that there is current 290 active studies (Not yet recruiting, Recruiting, Enrolling by Invitation & Active, not recruiting) for Sickle Cell Disease, Disorder and Anaemia - showing promise for better treatment & cure options in the near future.
Pharmaceutical Business Conference Group proudly supports World Sickle Cell Day and it’s mission “Building and strengthening Global Sickle Cell Communities, Formalizing New-born Screening and Knowing your Sickle Cell Disease Status”, taking place Monday June 19th, 2023.
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