You could have sickle cell trait and not know it. No matter what their ethnic background, both men and women need to be screened for sickle cell trait. Screening is equally important for men and women because it's the combination of genes from both parents that determines whether a child will have the disease.
Testing is available at most hospitals or medical centers, from sickle cell disease community-based organizations, or at local health departments.
A small sample of blood is taken from the finger (a "needle prick") and tested in a lab.
If the results of the test show that a person has sickle cell trait, it is important that the person know what sickle cell trait is, how it can affect him or her, and if and how sickle cell disease runs in his or her family.
The best way to find out if you are at risk of having a child with sickle cell trait or sickle cell disease based on your family's history is to see a genetic counselor. These professionals have experience with genetic blood disorders. It is best to learn all you can before deciding to have children.
The presence of the CDC logo and CDC content on this page should not be construed to imply endorsement by the US Government of any commercial products or services, or to replace the advice of a medical professional. The mark “CDC” is licensed under authority of the PHS.
You could have sickle cell trait and not know it. No matter what
their ethnic background, both men and women need to be screened for
sickle cell trait. Screening is equally important for men and women
because it's the combination of genes...
More
You could have sickle cell trait and not know it. No matter what their ethnic background, both men and women need to be screened for sickle cell trait. Screening is equally important for men and women because it's the combination of genes from both parents that determines whether a child will have the disease.
