Learn About Sickle Cell Disease

19 June - Sickle Cell Day

Sickle cell disease is a group of disorders that affects hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that delivers oxygen to cells throughout the body. People with this disorder have atypical hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can distort red blood cells into a sickle, or crescent, shape.

Signs and symptoms of sickle cell disease usually begin in early childhood. Characteristic features of this disorder include a low number of red blood cells (anemia), repeated infections, and periodic episodes of pain. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person. Some people have mild symptoms, while others are frequently hospitalized for more serious complications.




 Links:
Facts About Sickle Cell Disease http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/sicklecell/facts.html
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Sickle Cell Anemia? http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics
3rd World Sickle Cell Day http://www.unesco.org/new/en/unesco/events/

The Periodic Table of Vitamins

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         Vitamins are substances that your body needs to grow and develop normally. There are 13 vitamins your body needs. They are vitamins A, C, D, E, K and the B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12 and folate). You can usually get all your vitamins from the foods you eat. Your body can also make vitamins D and K. People who eat a vegetarian diet may need to take a vitamin B12 supplement.