Living With The Enemy- Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell anemia is a disease passed down through families. The red blood cells which are normally shaped like a disc take on a sickle or crescent shape. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body.

Sickle cell anemia is most common in people whose families come from Africa, South or Central America (especially Panama), Caribbean islands, Mediterranean countries (such as Turkey, Greece, and Italy), India, and Saudi Arabia.

In the United States, it's estimated that sickle cell anemia affects 70,000–100,000 people, mainly African Americans. The disease occurs in about 1 out of every 500 African American births. Sickle cell anemia also affects Hispanic Americans. The disease occurs in more than 1 out of every 36,000 Hispanic American births.

More than 2 million Americans have sickle cell trait. The condition occurs in about 1 in 12 African Americans.

Join host Petula Beckles as she delves into the world of those living with this deadly disease. Do you or someone you know stuggle with Sickle Cell Anemia? If so, join us- (917) 932-8802.