Cognitive Effects of Sickle Cell Anemia

According to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, "people with sickle cell disease have red blood cells that contain mostly hemoglobin S, an abnormal type of hemoglobin. Sometimes these red blood cells become sickle-shaped (crescent shaped) and have difficulty passing through small blood vessels." Along with physical complications, there are cognitive effects of having sickle cell anemia.

Effects

• Sickle cells can damage and block the vessels that provide blood flow to the brain. This can cause strokes or scars on the brain and lead to learning disabilities and speech and language delays.

Geography

• Although sickle cell anemia mostly affects those of African ancestry, it can be found in people with East Indian, South, North and Central American, Caribbean, Arabian and Mediterranean ancestry as well.

Warning

• There are several types of sickle cell disease, but sickle cell anemia is the most severe form.

Considerations

• Volume 22, issue 6 of the "Journal of School Nursing" notes that "despite studies describing the significant academic and cognitive impact of sickle cell disease, reports describing interventions are limited. There is a lack of awareness among educators of the academic risks associated with sickle cell disease and a lack of appropriate resource allocation."

Prevention/Solution

• Unfortunately, there is no cure for sickle cell anemia. However, modern medicine has decreased the death rate and made the disease more manageable.