Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Patient Voices: Sickle Cell Anemia


FULL AUDIO and VIDEO


http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2011/03/02/health/healthguide/te_sicklecell.html?ref=health


Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disease in which red blood cells are unable to properly carry oxygen throughout the body because of their distinctive crescent-like, or sickle, shape. The condition causes severe episodes of pain and fatigue, and it can lead to damage to the eyes and other organs. Sickle cell anemia affects about 72,000 people in the United States, most of African descent. Here, six men and women speak about the impact sickle cell anemia has had on their lives and families. (Join the discussion here.)