Thousands of lives across England are set to change with the approval of a life-changing sickle cell drug, Voxeletor. Following a recommendation from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the NHS will soon provide this daily tablet to eligible patients. About 17,000 people live with sickle cell disease in England, and roughly 4,000 will qualify for this new treatment.
What Is Sickle Cell Disorder?
Sickle cell disorder causes red blood cells to take on a “sickle” shape. These cells break down early and cannot carry oxygen effectively. This leads to chronic anemia and severe pain episodes called crises.
