Sickle Cell Disorder is the name given to a group of hereditary blood conditions, which affects the haemoglobin - an oxygen carrying substance that gives blood its red colour. Under certain conditions the affected red blood cells change shape to resemble that of a farmer's sickle. People with Sickle Cell Disorder (Hb SS) have symptoms, which include severe pain (crisis), anaemia and an increased risk of infection. Usual treatments included penicillin, increased intake of fluids and painkillers. There are three common Sickle Cell Disorders. Sickle Cell Anaemia, Sickle C Disease and Sickle Beta/Thalassaemia. 

If both parents have sickle cell trait there is a one in four chance (25%) that in EACH pregnancy the child will have sickle cell disorder. This does not mean that if you plan to have 4 children only one will inherit the disease.

The Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project provides genetic counselling which gives individuals the opportunity to discuss the several options for making informed decisions.