Understanding This Complex Form
of Sickle Cell Disease

Genetic Factors to Consider With HbSC Disease

All people who have sickle cell disease receive faulty genes from their parents. With haemoglobin SS (HbSS) disease, children receive an abnormal haemoglobin S gene from each parent. With HbSC disease, a child receives one haemoglobin S gene and one haemoglobin C gene, and this variation can affect the outcome of the health condition.

HbSC Disease Is Often Less Severe, But Can Still Impact One’s Health

People with the HbSC form of sickle cell disease experience pain episodes and anaemia, but these effects are often milder than with HbSS forms of the disorder. However, this type of sickle cell disease carries a higher chance of retina damage, which is known as sickle cell retinopathy.

The rigid, misshapen red blood cells that characterize sickle cell disease can cause problems in vessels all over the body, including those within the retina. Over time, this damage can lead to blurred vision, blind spots, and even loss of vision if proper treatment is not received.

How Can People With HbSC Disease Manage Their Health?

Despite its association with milder symptoms, HbSC disease requires frequent monitoring and treatment. People with this disorder can better control their health by doing the following:

• Taking medications according to their doctor’s instructions
• Eating a nutritious diet that is low in iron-rich foods
• Participating in suitable exercise on a regular basis

When it comes to health issues, parents with children who have sickle cell disease type HbSC should take their children for yearly eye exams starting at about age eight. Additionally, parents must visit an eye care professional who has experience with sickle cell retinopathy, as they will be the most likely to catch early symptoms.