Sickle Cell Anemia

Causes & Prevention

How Do People Get Sickle Cell Anemia?

Sickle cell anemia is a strictly inherited disease. There is no other way to get it.

The genes involved in sickle cell disease control the production of a protein in red cells called hemoglobin. Hemoglobin binds oxygen in the lungs and delivers it to the peripheral tissues, such as the liver and muscles.

What Does It Mean When Medical Experts Say "Race" Is A Risk Factor For Certain Diseases?

Editor's Note:

"Race" is sometimes mentioned as a risk factor in the development of certain cancers and a number of other diseases. When you read this in a discussion about an illness, note that the explanation seldom refers to anything biological. Instead, it usually refers to behavior, such as eating habits. The kinds of behavior usually mentioned as risk factors are culturally determined. They are not genetic or biological.