Sickle Cell Disease

A disease in which the affected person makes an abnormal hemoglobin which leads to “sickled” red blood cells that have a decreased lifespan and are prone to clotting. Sickle cell disease is inherited.

Sickle Cell Trait and Blood Donation 

Sickle cell trait (SCT) means you have inherited one normal hemoglobin gene and one sickle cell gene. People with sickle cell trait are generally healthy and usually have no symptoms related to sickle cell disease. Individuals with sickle cell trait can safely donate blood as long as they meet all other donor eligibility requirements.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder in which a person has two sickle cell genes. Individuals with SCD have abnormal hemoglobin, causing their red blood cells to become stiff, sticky, and shaped like a “sickle.” Sickle cells have a decreased lifespan and can get stuck in small blood vessels, leading to anemia, pain, and other complications. Individuals with SCD are not eligible to donate blood.