National Sickle Cell Awareness Month: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Sickle Cell Awareness Month (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Sickle Cell Awareness Month is observed on September 1st.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as intriguing facts you need know about National Sickle Cell Awareness Month.

📅 What day is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month 2024?

In 2024, National Sickle Cell Awareness Month is on Friday, September 1st. It is the 1st Friday in September; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all the exciting details and facts about September 1, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Each year in September, we observe National Sickle Cell Awareness Month with the aim of raising awareness and focusing on sickle cell disease. The primary objective is to promote research and explore treatment options that can enhance the well-being of individuals affected by this condition.

📜 National Sickle Cell Awareness Month History

According to historical records, this illness has been present in Africa for at least 5,000 years and had different names within various tribes. However, in 1910, the formal discovery and naming of the illness occurred. A young man named Walter Clement Noel, who was studying dentistry in Chicago, experienced severe pain and anemic symptoms. After being examined by Dr. James B. Herrick, a cardiologist, he was referred to Dr. Ernest Irons. Dr. Irons observed that Walter’s blood cells were sickle-shaped under a microscope, leading Dr. Herrick to conclude that it was a new condition. Dr. Herrick published his findings in a medical journal, coining the term “sickle-shaped cells” and the illness became known as sickle cell disease.

Following this discovery, more cases of the illness were identified, mainly among people of African descent, but its true nature remained unknown. It wasn’t until 17 years later that two medical experts, surgeon Vernon Hahn and intern Elizabeth B. Gillespie, discovered that sickle-shaped cells could be induced by removing oxygen from red blood cells. This discovery was crucial in understanding the cause and treatment of the disease. Further research during this time also led to the identification of sickle trait, a condition where red blood cells sickle without causing symptoms.

By the 1940s, it was established that sickle cell disease was inherited from parents. Two separate studies, one published by Col. E. A. Beet in an African medical publication and another by Dr. James V. Neel in an American publication, confirmed the genetic transmission of the disease. Dr. Neel gained recognition for his publication, although both studies contributed to the understanding of the disease’s inheritance.

In 1951, scientists discovered that the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, hemoglobin, had a distinct structure in individuals with sickle cell disease. This finding furthered researchers’ understanding of the impact of the condition. From the 1970s onwards, advancements in diagnosis and treatment improved the quality of life and lifespan of those affected by sickle cell disease. The National Association for Sickle Cell Disease, Inc., a non-profit organization, observed misinformation and inaccurate information about the disease and began awareness efforts in 1975, establishing National Sickle Cell Awareness Month in 1976. The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America has since been working towards improving treatments and finding a cure. This awareness month was officially recognized by the federal government in 1983 and has been observed in the United States ever since.

✅ National Sickle Cell Awareness Month Facts

🔖 This is a group of blood disorders
Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is the most common type.

🔖 People need to test for this
Testing for sickle cell trait is important because many individuals are unaware that they possess it. Sickle cell trait is inherited when both parents pass on the sickle cell gene to their child, but the child does not develop the disease itself.

🔖 It is most common among African Americans
While other groups such as Latinos, Asians, Middle Easterners, and Mediterraneans also face the consequences, African Americans are disproportionately impacted by these issues.

👍 Why Is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month Important

The more people who are aware of and understand this sickness, the better prepared they will be to cope with it. Members can even begin working for shared causes and work together to improve the lives of individuals affected by this condition.

This month’s events benefit individuals living with the condition as well as those whose lives it has impacted. It even expands screening for this disease.

We have a better chance of getting the message out if we address the fundamental issues that people with this condition face.The more individuals who learn about and share their experiences, the higher our prospects are of advocating for additional therapy, drugs, and perhaps a cure for this condition.

🙂 How To Observe National Sickle Cell Awareness Month

⚡ Donate money

⚡ Check for events online
In September, various foundations and organizations, such as the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, organize a range of events like races, summits, fundraisers, and even Twitter parties. Take the opportunity to learn more about these activities and consider attending a few of them.

⚡ Donate blood
Consider contributing to this cause by donating to charities that support sickle cell therapy. Support clinical trials, research, and housing for people suffering from this condition.

📅 When is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month?

See all 🔗 September holidays, including 🔗 Health and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. So be sure to check back soon.