World Sickle Cell Awareness Day: Know Your Genotype, Plan a Healthier Future

Genotype AA has no sickle cell trait. Genotype AS carries one copy of the sickle cell trait, does not suffer from SCD, but can pass the trait down to offspring. Genotype SS has two copies of the trait (one from each parent) and therefore suffers from SCD.

Hemoglobin Genotype Compatibility:
AA + AA → AA (no SCD in children)
AA + AS → AA or AS (no SCD in children)
AA + SS → AS (no SCD in children)
AS + AS → AA, AS, AS, SS (25% risk of SCD per pregnancy)
AS + SS → AS or SS (50% risk of SCD per pregnancy)
SS + SS → SS (all children affected)

Know your genotype. Know your partner's genotype. Plan a healthier future.

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder caused by a change in the gene responsible for hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in red blood cells. Nigeria carries the largest burden of the disease globally, with over 4 million persons living with SCD.

In affected individuals, red blood cells become rigid and sickle-shaped (instead of round and flexible), block blood flow in small vessels, and break down earlier than normal cells.

Common symptoms include:

• Severe recurring pain episodes
• Persistent anemia leading to fatigue
• Frequent infections
• Delayed growth and developmental challenges
• Long-term damage to organs such as the spleen, kidneys, and eyes

Living with SCD often means repeated hospital visits, missed school or work days, and financial strain on families, especially where access to specialized care is limited.

Awareness and early testing remain key steps in reducing the burden of sickle cell disease across communities in Nigeria. Do you know your hemoglobin genotype?