September 24, 2025
Media Contact: Dr Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov
Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Spotlights Sickle Cell Disease
Learn More About this Commonly Inherited Blood Disorder
WARRENTON, Va. – September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month, and this year’s theme is “Sickle Cell Matters 2025.” Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects about 100,000 people in the United States. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District (RRHD) shares Virginia Sickle Cell Awareness Program.
Most people affected by SCD are non-Hispanic Black or African American, more than 90% are non-Hispanic Black or African American, and an estimated three to nine percent are Hispanic or Latino. On average, people with SCD live about 20 years less than others. In Virginia, around 65 babies with SCD and related conditions are found each year through newborn screenings.
A child gets sickle cell disease (SCD) when he or she receives two sickle cell genes – one from each parent. People with sickle cell trait (SCT) inherit one sickle cell gene and one normal gene.
“September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on a disease that touches many families in our community,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director James B. Carr, M.D. “Sickle cell disease is serious, but with early care, healthy choices, and strong support, people can live longer, healthier lives. By learning more, sharing information, and even considering blood donation, each of us can play a role in giving hope and strength to those living with this condition.”
Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that affects your red blood cells. Normally, red blood cells are round and move easily through your blood vessels. They have something in them called hemoglobin, which carries oxygen around your body. In sickle cell disease, the hemoglobin is different, so the cells become sticky and shaped like a C, instead of round. These C-shaped cells can get stuck in small blood vessels and block blood flow. This blockage can cause a lot of pain and other health problems.
According to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, people with sickle cell disease benefit most from blood transfusions from similar ethnic backgrounds. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District (RRHD) Department of Health encourages learning about sickle cell disease to understand its challenges and treatments. Talk to your doctor about your blood type and characteristics to consider donating blood.
People with SCD can live healthy lives by:
- Visiting their doctor regularly.
- Taking prescribed treatments like hydroxyurea.
- Preventing infections by washing hands.
- Drinking eight to 10 glasses of water and eating nutritious food.
The Virginia Department of Health has started collecting patient information for the Sickle Cell Registry. This registry was created in response to a law passed in July 2024. VDH partners with several sickle cell clinics. VDH will use the registry data to collaborate with partners in hopes of improving care for SCD clients.
For more on sickle cell disease, visit the VDH Sickle Cell Disease Program or the CDC webpage or contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District.
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