@dr_tnyamurungi_a: 🩸 World Sickle Cell Awareness Day Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder. A child develops the condition when they inherit a sickle cell gene from both parents (HbSS). 🧬 Haemoglobin types to know: • HbA – normal adult haemoglobin • HbF – fetal haemoglobin (protective in infancy) • HbS – sickle haemoglobin When HbS is present in large amounts, red blood cells become rigid, sticky and sickle-shaped, blocking blood flow and reducing oxygen delivery to organs. 💊 How does Hydroxyurea help? Hydroxyurea increases HbF (fetal haemoglobin), which helps prevent sickling, reduces pain crises, hospital admissions, blood transfusions and can improve quality of life. ✅ What can we do? • Know your sickle cell status before starting a family. • Encourage newborn screening and early diagnosis. • Ensure regular clinic follow-up. • Support access to Hydroxyurea where indicated. • Stay hydrated, prevent infections and seek early medical care. Sickle cell disease is not contagious. With early diagnosis, proper treatment and community support, children and adults living with sickle cell disease can thrive. However , when you can avoid it, please avoid it. There’s a special pain for when you watch your child in pain constantly🥹 #worldsicklecellawarenessday

Dr Tumusiime Nyamurungi_A

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Region: UG

Friday 19 June 2026 14:42:58 GMT