Ask Dr. Kevin: Debunking the Myths Around Sickle Cell Disease

This article is the second installment in the “Ask Dr. Kevin” series brought to you by Pfizer Rare Disease in collaboration with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) to increase understanding of sickle cell disease. In the United States, sickle cell disease (SCD) is considered rare because it affects only about 100,000 people nationwide. As such, not many people in the U.S. are aware of what SCD is, or if they are aware, they have limited experience with the disease. As with any disease, low awareness can spur myths and misperceptions and make it more difficult for those affected to obtain the care and support they need. Throughout my career, I have been asked a number of questions about SCD – many of which are common myths. In this article, I will share some of the more common myths, in an effort to separate out the facts from fiction. Abstract source