Monday, October 6, 2014

Facts About Sickle Cell Charities For Kids

By Jocelyn Davidson


Sickle-cell disease, which might also be called sickle-cell anemia, is the name of a hereditary blood disorder. Both SCD and SCA are characterized by an abnormal, rigid and sickle shape to the red blood cells of the body. The sickling reduces the flexibility of cells and increases the risk for life-threatening issues. A mutant gene that produces normal and abnormal hemoglobin causes this disease. There are numerous sickle cell charities for kids that are meant to raise money in order to help fund medical treatments, as well as research, for those with this hereditary disorder.

Those with this problem are more likely to have a shortened expectancy of life. In the past, it was under 50 years old for both women and men. Nowadays, advances in technology, knowledge and better management of sickle cell have increased the average life expectancy. Many have been known to live into the 70s and sometimes beyond then.

These kids charities often raise funds so that more medical studies and research can be done. They are also used as a platform to bring about awareness, as this disorder afflicts a lot of people. This might also include teaching sufferers about this condition and the many solutions available to them for management.

A lot of complications can come with SCD. People with this are at a heightened risk of bacterial infections, opiod intolerance, osteomyelitis, cholelithiasis, decreased immune system, ulcers on the legs, stroke, acute papillary necrosis and more. Most of these issues can be prevented. They can also be healed with proper care and healthy lifestyle choices. Numerous options are available for managing this disorder, such as: hydroxyurea, bone marrow transplants and transfusion therapy.

Charity donations can be used for many programs and benefits. Typically they are put toward providing the public with information, supporting research in medicine, professional education, and advocacy. It is important to research the charities before donating to ensure they can be trusted and money is directed to the right source. Most of these groups share the goal of finding a cure for this inherited disease.

The first recording of this condition is believed to come from an autopsy report that dates back to the 1800s. The 1900s was a time in which more people in different areas of the world were being seen with this problem. Nowadays, this afflicts all types of people. However, it is more commonly seen among those who derive from East India, Africa, and Mediterranean or Middle Eastern regions.

Diagnosis is often done at the time of birth with a blood test, which is part of screening newborns. Kids that test positive will be given second blood tests called hemoglobin electrophoresis just to confirm the diagnosis. Children with this disease are more prone to infection and complications, which is why early diagnostics and treatment is important.

Children should be given regular care from a hematologist and doctor if they have this issue. There are also special clinics that specialize in care for sickle-cell patients. Health education is important for these kids as they grow older. Charities do their best to provide help to people with this all around the world and also raise money to find a cure.




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