Sickle cell anemia can only occur when two people who carry sickle cell trait have a child together. Genetic counseling is recommended for all carriers of sickle cell trait. About 1 in 12 African Americans has sickle cell trait. It is possible to diagnose sickle cell anemia during pregnancy.

You can prevent sickling of red blood cells by:

• Getting enough fluids
• Getting enough oxygen
• Quickly treating infections

Have physical exams every 3 - 6 months to ensure that you are getting enough nutrition and activity, and that you are receiving the proper vaccinations. Regular eye exams are also recommended.

PREVENTING INFECTIONS

• People with sickle cell anemia need to keep their immunizations up to date, including Haemophilus influenza, pneumococcal, meningococcal, hepatitis B, and influenza.
• Some patients may receive antibiotics to prevent infections.

PREVENTING CRISES

Parents should encourage children with sickle cell anemia to lead normal lives.

To reduce sickle cell crises, take the following precautions:

• To prevent oxygen loss, avoid:
  • Demanding physical activity (especially if the spleen is enlarged)
  • Emotional stress
  • Environments with low oxygen (high altitudes, nonpressurized airplane flights)
  • Smoking
  • Known sources of infection
• To make sure you're getting enough fluids:
  • Avoid too much exposure to the sun
  • Have fluids on hand, both at home and away
  • Recognize signs of dehydration
• To avoid infection:
  • Consider having the child wear a Medic Alert bracelet
  • Have the child vaccinated as recommended by the health care provider
  • Share the above information with teachers and other caretakers, when necessary

Be aware of the effects that chronic, life-threatening illnesses can have on siblings, marriages, parents, and the child.