The Rapidly Rising Sickle Cell Disease In The UK: What You Need To Know?

Sickle cell disease is becoming a bigger concern in the UK. It is now the fastest-growing genetic condition. The number of people affected by sickle cell disease is rising, especially among certain communities.  

Sickle cell disease is an inherited condition that affects the red blood cells in our body. Normally, red blood cells are round and flexible. They move easily through blood vessels to carry oxygen around the body. But in sickle cell disease, these blood cells become shaped like a crescent or a sickle. This makes it harder for them to move through blood vessels.

People with sickle cell disease may feel tired, have pain, and sometimes face serious health problems. These pain episodes are called “sickle cell crises.” They can last for days or even weeks. Sickle cell disease can also lead to anaemia and make people feel weak and short of breath.

Why is Sickle Cell Growing in the UK?

Sickle cell disease is becoming more common in the UK. There are a few reasons for this. First, the number of people diagnosed with the condition is increasing every year. About 250 new cases of sickle cell disease are reported annually in the UK.

Second, sickle cell disease is most common among people from African, Caribbean, and South Asian backgrounds. These groups have a higher chance of carrying the gene for sickle cell disease. As more people from these backgrounds live in the UK, the number of cases continues to rise.

Finally, better screening programs in the UK are helping doctors find sickle cell disease early. This means more people are being diagnosed and getting the care they need.

The Strain on the Healthcare System

As the number of people with sickle cell disease grows, the healthcare system is under pressure. One of the biggest challenges is the need for blood donations. People with sickle cell disease often need blood transfusions to manage their symptoms. However, there is a shortage of blood from donors who match the needs of sickle cell patients.

Another problem is that the treatment options available for sickle cell disease in the UK are limited. There are only two medications approved for sickle cell disease in the UK, compared to five in the United States. This means that UK patients have fewer choices for treatment.

Additionally, access to specialist care is uneven. There are only a few places in the UK, like London and Manchester, that have specialized treatment centers.  

Living with Sickle Cell Disease

Living with sickle cell disease can be very challenging. The pain from sickle cell crises can be severe and last for days. Some people with the disease also experience other health problems, such as delayed growth or strokes.

Besides the physical pain, sickle cell disease can also affect a person’s mental health. Many people with the disease struggle with anxiety or depression because of the constant health challenges they face.

Government and NHS Efforts to Help

The UK government and NHS are working to improve care for people with sickle cell disease. One important step is the approval of new treatments. For example, NHS England has approved a new gene therapy called exa-cel. This treatment could offer a cure by fixing the faulty gene that causes sickle cell disease. Clinical trials have shown that exa-cel can stop painful sickle cell crises, which is a huge breakthrough for patients.

Additionally, NHS England has introduced genetic blood testing. This test helps doctors choose the best blood for transfusions, reducing side effects for sickle cell patients. The government is also investing in more treatment centers, so people with sickle cell disease have better access to care.

Racial and Ethnic Healthcare Disparities

Sickle cell disease primarily affects Black African and Caribbean communities. Unfortunately, these communities often face racial inequalities in healthcare. 

There is also a lack of specialist sickle cell nurses. Studies show that for every 100 patients with cystic fibrosis, there are two specialist nurses. But for every 100 patients with sickle cell disease, there is only one nurse. This shortage of trained staff makes it harder to provide good care.

Key Takeaways

Although living with sickle cell disease is difficult, the UK is making progress in providing better care. With new treatments, better access to specialist care, and efforts to reduce racial disparities, people with sickle cell disease can expect a brighter future. If you can, consider donating blood to help patients in need, and spread the word about sickle cell disease to help others understand this important health issue.

By continuing to raise awareness and support people with sickle cell disease, we can all play a part in improving care for those affected by this condition.

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