• - Sickle cell anemia is caused by a change in genes that are involved in producing hemoglobin, an iron-rich compound found in RBCs.
• This condition is inherited from parents. Both parents must pass on the defective form of the gene for the child to get affected.

If untreated for a prolonged period it may lead to

• Stroke
• Acute chest syndrome, a life threatening complication
• Pulmonary hypertension or high blood pressure in lungs
• Damage to several organs including kidneys, liver, and spleen due to reduced blood supply
• Blindness
• Sores or ulcers in the legs
• Gallstones
• Priapism or painful, long-lasting erections noted in men with sickle cell anemia
• Osteoporosis