Can sickle cell disease be treated?
Yes. Most people with sickle cell disease have good health most of the time, and treatment is given for complications as they occur. Regular immunisation and good nutrition will make young patients less susceptible to infections, and easy access to medical care will ensure that complications are treated correctly and promptly as they occur. A regular medical check up is important. Folic acid may assist blood formation and perhaps improve growth. Blood transfusions are not required except when the haemoglobin level is markedly below the patient’s usual level. Regular attendance at the doctor is important since they may be able to detect things going wrong and treat them early.
