Sickle cell disease (SCD) is one of the most common inherited blood disorders, disproportionately affecting Black patients who face complex health challenges requiring specialized, multidisciplinary care that is often difficult to access.
If not promptly managed, SCD can lead to severe complications like stroke, organ damage, and chronic pain, impacting quality of life and life expectancy.
Management of SCD is focused on preventing and treating pain episodes and complications associated with the illness. Individuals affected by SCD should have regular appointments for care through programs like the Lifespan Hemoglobinopathy Program at LHSC.
