Sickle Cell Trait Screening Awareness

We invite you to delve deeper into your child’s health and well-being. On this important journey towards better health and awareness, we are excited to announce the launch of our new Sickle Cell Trait screening and education program. It is designed to identify and educate children, adolescents and young adults with sickle cell trait.  

What is Sickle Cell Trait (SCT) and who can it affect? 

Sickle cell trait is a blood disorder where the body makes an altered form of hemoglobin, a substance inside the red blood cell that delivers oxygen to all organs in the body. This abnormal hemoglobin causes the red blood cells to become hard and sticky and look like a C-shaped farm tool called a “sickle. 

Sickle Cell Trait occurs when a person inherits one abnormal hemoglobin gene from one parent and one normal hemoglobin gene from the other. SCT is more common among people whose ancestors come from Africa, the Mediterranean region, Middle East, and South Asia, but anyone can have SCT  

Can my child get sick from sickle cell trait? 

Most people with sickle cell trait do not experience symptoms. However, in rare cases, extreme conditions such as high altitudes or extreme dehydration can lead to complications. The NCAA also requires SCT screening of certain student-athletes 

Why do I need to know if myself or my child has SCT? 

The most important thing to know about having SCT is that abnormal hemoglobin can be passed on to children. If you still plan on having a baby, you should know your sickle cell status. Also, when your child reaches reproductive age, this is an important piece of information to know.  

If both parents of a baby have an abnormal hemoglobin gene, the baby could be born with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). SCD is a more serious condition that can cause anemia, bone pain and many other complications 

Our goal is to promote early detection, education, and proactive management of sickle cell trait to ensure the well-being of our patients and their families. This will empower our patients and their families with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health.  

How can my child get tested for SCT? Can I also get tested? 

Our screening program offers testing to identify individuals with sickle cell trait, followed by counseling and education on the implications of the trait. With our sickle cell trait screening program, we aim to make a positive impact on the lives of our patients and the community at large.  Call us today at 630.929.3009 to get started

Thank you for entrusting us with your healthcare needs, and we look forward to serving you in our clinic.