What is sickel cell anemia - I heard only Black People get this?

Question

Me

Answer 1

Sickle cell anemia is caused by an inherited disorder of hemoglobin synthesis where a single amino acid, valine, is substituted for the normal glutamic acid. When de-oxygenated, this abnormal hemoglobin (Hb S) becomes elongated and distorts the red blood cells to a shape of a sickle. These red cells have a shortened life span causing anemia and clots in small blood vessels.

The gene causing this disorder is most prevalent in those whose origins are from sub-Saharan Africa, but is also found in persons whose family origins are around the Mediterranean basin such as Italy, Greece, Middle East, etc. Also, since there has been much intermarriage since slavery times, the gene is found in apparently white populations.

So your impression is incorrect. Although sickle cell anemia is more common in persons of African origin, it can also affect people of other ethnic origins.

Answer 2

People with an African ancestry are more likely to be affected by sickle cell anemia through heredity, however it does hit other ethnic groups. Normal red blood cells carry oxygen, are disc-shaped, and flexible. However, people with sickle cell anemia have stiffer crescent moon shaped red blood cells. Because of their shape they tend to get stuck together making the red blood cells more fragile. Often people with this diseases tend to look worn out and tired and that is because they have a lower red blood count than what is considered normal.

Answer 3

I was under the impression that only black people get sickle cell anemia.

Answer 4

Hereditary defect of hemoglobin with S hemoglobin. Occurs as both homozygous and heterozygous forms with the latter having just the trait. It occurs only in blacks. It protects somewhat against malaria.

Answer 5

it's sickle and it's not just black people who get it, white people too