Developed from SCHAF’s 14 years of advocacy, education, and patient engagement, these resources provide reliable information on understanding and managing Sickle Cell Disease.
FAQs, educational guides, and research materials are available for patients, caregivers, and the general public.
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells. People with SCD have abnormal hemoglobin that causes red blood cells to become rigid and shaped like sickles or crescent moons.
SCD is inherited when a child receives two sickle cell genes—one from each parent. If both parents carry the sickle cell trait, there’s a 25% chance with each pregnancy that the child will have SCD.
Common symptoms include episodes of pain (pain crises), fatigue, anemia, swelling in hands and feet, frequent infections, delayed growth, and vision problems.
Currently, bone marrow or stem cell transplants are the only potential cures for SCD, but they carry significant risks. Gene therapy is an emerging treatment showing promising results.
A simple blood test called hemoglobin electrophoresis can detect whether you have SCD or carry the sickle cell trait. Contact SCHAF for information about free screening events in your area.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a severe pain crisis or other SCD emergency, seek medical attention immediately.
SCHAF Email: schafmobile@gmail.com
SCHAF Helpline: +234 810 819 2619
The Sickle Cell Hope Alive Foundation (SCHAF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by Sickle Cell Disease through awareness, advocacy, screening, and sustained support.
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