Know your Trait During Sickle Cell Awareness Month
Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is excited to announce the return of our Sickle Cell Awareness Month campaign this September. In our ongoing commitment to battle sickle cell disease (SCD), we are once again offering complimentary sickle cell trait screening for all Black donors who visit our donor centers or mobile blood drives from September 1-30, 2024.
Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that causes red blood cells to become rigid and crescent-shaped, which can obstruct blood flow and lead to severe pain, organ damage, and an increased risk of stroke. This condition primarily impacts Black or African American individuals, accounting for over 90% of cases in the U.S. People with a sickle cell trait, which differs from having the disease, can pass this trait to their children. A child who inherits the trait from both parents can develop sickle cell disease. Understanding one's sickle cell trait status can assist with informed family planning and better health management.
By participating in this campaign, donors contribute to ensuring that local hospitals have the compatible blood necessary for patients requiring transfusions. Blood transfusions are critical for managing SCD and improving the quality of life for patients, with one in three African American blood donors being a match for these patients. This highlights the importance of maintaining a diverse donor base and blood supply.
“It’s the rule of 10’s! As many as 10% of African Americans have the sickle cell trait, and individuals of African descent are ten times more likely to be a blood match for patients suffering from sickle cell disease,” said Dr. Beth Hartwell, Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center’s Chief Medical Officer. “Please consider donating and participating in our sickle cell screening program – you’ll find valuable information about yourself and help patients in our community.”
Our screening process is simple. In September, any donor who identifies as Black or African American will automatically be tested for the sickle cell trait as part of their donation. Test results will be available in the donors' Digital Donor account within two weeks of their donation. Donors can view their results under "My Test Results" in their account. Donors who were screened in 2023 will not be tested again. Their results will be available in their Digital Donor account.
Understanding the impact of sickle cell disease and the role of blood donations can significantly enhance our community’s efforts to provide essential life-saving support to patients in need. Join us in making that difference.