SCDPH observes World Sickle Cell Day

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Photo: South Carolina Department of Public Health

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is joining partners in celebrating the 2025 theme of “Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self-Advocacy” in observance of World Sickle Cell Day on June 19.

SCDPH officials say sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder caused by abnormal hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen in red blood cells.

People with SCD have some red blood cells that are hard, sharp and shaped like a crescent moon because of the abnormal hemoglobin, so it makes the blood cells hard to move through certain blood vessels to carry oxygen to all parts of the body.

“With proper care, treatment and resources, people with sickle cell disease can live a long and high-quality life. DPH works in tandem with partners across the state to ensure South Carolinians with sickle cell disease have what they need to help them avoid serious problems and health complications from the disease,” said Dr. Edward Simmer, interim DPH director.

In December 2023, DPH implemented a statewide Sickle Cell Disease Registry.

DPH’s Sickle Cell Program provides care coordination and payment assistance for eligible people diagnosed with SCD to receive medical services, supplies, equipment and/or medications as prescribed by their medical provider.

To learn more about SCD and the state’s Sickle Cell Disease Registry, visit DPH’s Sickle Cell Disease webpage.