“Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited red blood cell disorder. Sickle cells are rigid and crescent-shaped instead of flexible and round like healthy red blood cells. The abnormal sickle shape causes them to get stuck in small blood vessels, clogging blood flow and interfering with oxygen delivery.

Sickle cells tend to die early, resulting in a shortage of red blood cells. The disease can cause pain and other health issues, including sickle cell anemia.

Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder the United States, affecting around 100,000 people.”

New York Presbyterian (Sickle Cell Disease (SCD): Symptoms & Causes | NewYork-Presbyterian)