Born on June 19
World Sickle Cell Day
Bring sickle cell out of the shadows.
Next: June 19, 2027
Where it comes from
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder, one of the world's most common genetic diseases. On 22 December 2008 the UN General Assembly adopted by consensus a resolution recognising sickle-cell anaemia as a public health problem (resolution 63/237), co-sponsored by the Republic of the Congo, Senegal…
How it's celebrated
Patient groups, doctors and health ministries use the day to bring the disease 'out of the shadows': to encourage screening and genetic counselling, to share simple ways to manage it, such as drinking plenty of fluids, eating well and taking folic acid, and to challenge the prejudice that people with it often face.
Did you know
Sickle cell anaemia affects hundreds of thousands of babies born each year, mostly in low- and middle-income countries.
Read the full story of World Sickle Cell Day
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Gemini · May 21 – June 20 · Air sign
Curious and chatty, always with two ideas on the go.