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Sickle Cell, first diagnosed about 100 years ago, affects about one in 12 African Americans. Sickle cell disease damages blood cells by changing smooth and round cells into sickle shapes and making them hard and sticky. This results in the blocking of blood flow and damage to organs. Complications range from intense pain to stroke or death.It is estimated that more than 80,000 Americans have sickle cell disease and more than two million Americans have the sickle cell trait, meaning they carry one copy of the gene for the disease. There is presently no universal cure for sickle cell disease, though many patients, given proper treatment, can lead fairly normal lives into their 40s and beyond. Researchers continue to look for a cure and for new, more effective treatments. Sickle cell disease is common throughout the world, and people of all races should be screened to determine if they are carriers of the inherited sickle cell trait or if they have the disease. A simple and painless blood test is all that is needed. hide information

Sickle Cell, first diagnosed about 100 years ago, affects about one in 12 African Americans. Sickle cell disease damages blood cells by changing smooth and round cells into sickle shapes and making them hard and sticky. This results in the blocking of blood flow and damage to organs. Complications range from intense pain to stroke or death.It is estimated that more than 80,000 Americans have sickle cell disease and more than two million Americans have the sickle cell trait, meaning they carry one copy of the gene for the disease. There is presently no universal cure for sickle cell disease, though many patients, given proper treatment, can lead fairly normal lives into their 40s and beyond. Researchers continue to look for a cure and for new, more effective treatments. Sickle cell disease is common throughout the world, and people of all races should be screened to determine if they are carriers of the inherited sickle cell trait or if they have the disease. A simple and painless blood test is all that is needed. This stamp was issued by the United States Postal Service on September 29, 2004 .