September is Sickle Cell Consciousness Month. Greater than 100,000 individuals in the US have sickle cell anemia, however 1 out of 15 Black individuals carry the sickle cell trait. Sickle cell is an inherited lifelong blood situation affecting the form of pink blood cells, which carry oxygen to all elements of the physique.
Dr. Kim Smith-Whitley, world chief medical affairs officer for affected person advocacy and exterior collaboration for Pfizer, and Tevin Coleman and Akilah Coleman, whose daughter has the sickle cell, stopped by theGrio Weekly to boost consciousness in regards to the sickness.
Each Coleman mother and father carry the sickle cell trait, however out of their twin youngsters, solely their daughter has the illness. Whereas Akilah Coleman didn’t present any signs of carrying the trait, Tevin Coleman skilled compilations whereas taking part in soccer in school. He says he skilled passing out, his physique cramping and locking up, and was unable to complete practices.
Smith-Whitley says this illness is so prevalent within the Black group as a result of the gene is a protecting mechanism the place you will have malaria that’s frequently occurring. When you come from descendants who grew up the place malaria is prevalent, having the sickle cell trait protects you from extreme issues of malaria.
Whereas medical doctors are nonetheless looking for a remedy for this illness, research have proven that adopting a wholesome life-style, together with your psychological and bodily well being, has helped individuals handle their ache and dwell regular on a regular basis lives.
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