Newborns receive mandated screening for sickle cell anemia at birth. The test uses the same blood samples used for other newborn tests.
Early diagnosis is very important, because complications from the disease can arise early in life.
Using genetic testing, doctors can now diagnose sickle cell disease even before birth, as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy.
Sickle cell disease is inherited when someone inherits mutated sickle cell genes from both parents. If, however, a person inherits a sickle cell gene from one parent and a normal gene from the other parent, it results in a condition called sickle cell trait (more than two million Americans have sickle cell trait). People with sickle cell trait do not have sickle cell anemia, but they are at high risk for passing along the gene to their children.
(Source: National Institutes of Health)
For patients with a family history of sickle cell anemia, the OSUCCC – James offers genetic counseling.
Diagnosing Sickle Cell Anemia
A simple blood test detects sickle cells in the blood. In the United States, testing for sickle cell anemia is mandated as part of each state’s newborn screening programs. The test uses the same blood samples used for other newborn tests.
Early diagnosis is important, because complications from the disease can arise early in life.
Using genetic testing, doctors can now diagnose sickle cell disease even before birth, as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy.
(Source: National Institutes of Health)
If you’ve been diagnosed with sickle cell anemia, would like a second opinion or would like to speak with a blood disorder specialist, please call The James Line at 800-293-5066 or 614-293-5066 to make an appointment.
Related Resources
Sickle Cell Anemia Prevention
Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment
Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment Team