Understanding Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that changes the shape and function of red blood cells. Instead of being round and flexible, red blood cells take on a crescent or “sickle” shape, which makes it harder for them to move through blood vessels. These misshapen cells can cause painful blockages, anemia, organ damage, infections and even stroke.
According to the CDC, 1 in every 365 Black or African American children is born with sickle cell disease. Hispanic Americans are also impacted, though at a lower rate, with 1 in 16,300 children born with the condition.
Why Blood Donations Matter
Blood transfusions are a major weapon in the fight against sickle cell disease. Regular transfusions can improve oxygen flow, reduce pain and dramatically improve quality of life for patients. Because sickle cell disease disproportionately affects certain communities, having a diverse blood donor pool is critical to ensure better transfusion matches.
RELATED: What Is Sickle Cell Disease?
A Story to Inspire Action
This September, in honor of National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, Our Blood Institute is proud to highlight the voices of those directly impacted.
Join Reese Alexander, Miss Black Oklahoma USA 2026, as she sits down with Oklahoma City’s Amaya Harris, a sickle cell warrior, to share her journey and discuss why blood donations are so vital.
