DOH Leon Marks World Sickle Cell Day 

June 15, 2022

 DOH Leon Recognizes World Sickle Cell Day

 Tallahassee, Fla. – Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is the most common genetic disease worldwide and is estimated to affect 8,000 people in Florida and some 100,000 people nationwide. The Florida Department of Health in Leon County (DOH Leon)  recognizes June 19 as World Sickle Cell Day and encourages citizens to consider blood donation to support those living with SCD.

Every baby born in a hospital in the United States is tested for SCD. SCD is most common among African Americans. It can cause severe episodes of pain, anemia requiring blood transfusions, and frequent hospitalizations due to effects on other organs. Though there is no cure, treatments and support services are available for those in Leon County living with SCD.

“A significant way to support those with Sickle Cell Disease in Leon County is to donate blood,” said Sandon Speedling, MHS, CPM, CPH, DOH Leon Interim Health Officer. “Those with SCD must receive frequent blood transfusions. Having a diverse supply of blood types is crucial for these patients.” 

DOH Leon will join the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation of Tallahassee and other partners for a community health fair to mark World Sickle Cell Disease Day:

Community Health Fair
Saturday | June 18, 2022
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
2625 South Adams Street
Tallahassee, FL 32301
(Free food giveaways, games, prizes, free health screenings for the sickle cell trait, on-site health vendors, health education brochures)
 

Contact the Red Cross in Tallahassee to find a local blood drive or schedule a time to donate. To find out more about SCD, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/sicklecell/

# # #