Literature Review on Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease, also known as sickle cell anemia, is a genetic condition in which red blood cells mutate into an abnormal sickle shape. In the U.S., it is most common among African Americans.

Scientific Studies

• Research about sickle cell disease dates back to the early part of the 20th century. The government medical database PubMed.gov from the U.S. National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health provides an extensive index of abstracts of studies on the disease.

Treatment Resources

• The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America (SCDAA) provides up-to-date information on clinical literature about the disease. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute authored a historical overview on treatment “Sickle Cell Research for Treatment and Cure.”

Patient Resources

• The American Sickle Cell Anemia Association (ASCAA) publishes several pamphlets and brochures for patients and their families. These materials can be requested via email or phone.

Children

• The SCDAA has created a website for children to learn about sickle cell disease.

Expectant Mothers and Patients

• “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” by Heidi Eisenberg Murkoff provides information on the disease for pregnant women. “Sickle Cell Disease” by Jacqueline L. Harris uses case studies of three young people to explain its effect on the body.