Sickle Cell Trait Toolkit!

"Did you know that 1.5% of babies born in the United States have Sickle Cell Trait (SCT). That’s almost 1 in every 50 babies! While people with SCT often lead normal lives with few health problems, it is important for people with SCT to be aware of their trait status and the risk of passing it on to their children. The Sickle Cell Trait Toolkit provides valuable information for people with SCT.

What is sickle cell trait?

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic condition that is present at birth. It is inherited when a child receives two sickle cell genes—one from each parent. People who inherit a sickle cell gene from one parent and a normal gene from their other parent have sickle cell trait (SCT). People with SCT usually do not have any of the signs of sickle cell disease and typically live a life without any problems from their sickle cell gene. However, they can pass the trait on to their children. Additionally, there are a few, uncommon health problems[763 KB] that may potentially be related to sickle cell trait.

What is the sickle cell trait toolkit?

CDC, together with the American Society of Hematology (ASH) and the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America (SCDAA) , created the Sickle Cell Trait Toolkit, an online collection of educational materials related to SCT. We hope that the tools and resources provided are both helpful and informative, and they empower you or those you know with SCT to learn more and take action..."
Sickle cell trait