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The Sickle Cell Association of Austin-Marc Thomas Foundation
Our Mission:  To enhance and improve the quality of life for individuals and their families
living with sickle cell disease serving as a bridge for help and hope.
Sickle Cell Trait

What is sickle cell trait?
  • Sickle cell trait is an inherited blood condition. It is not a disease.
  • Sickle cell trait is passed from parents to their children. If both parents have sickle
    cell trait there is a 25% chance that their child will have sickle cell disease.
  • Many people from different ethnic backgrounds can have sickle cell trait. This
    includes African Americans, Hispanics, Greeks, Italians, Asians, Caucasians and
    others.
What are the symptoms?
  • People with sickle cell trait normally have no symptoms or problems and they lead
    completely normal lives.
  • Rarely some may experience fatigue, joint pain and shortness of breath in high
    altitudes.
How can I find out if I have sickle cell trait?
  • A simple blood test can determine if you have sickle cell trait by your doctor
  • If you were born in Texas after November 1, 1983 you may get your newborn test
    result by contacting your birth doctor or your birth hospital.

Interesting Facts About trait
  • New studies have found that sometimes people who have trait are often
    misdiagnosed with Diabetes. This means that people with trait sometimes are
    diagnosed with Diabetes when in fact they do not have it.  For more information visit
    the National Diabetes Clearing House website:
  • Sickle Cell Trait was actually developed as a genetic mutation to prevent the deadly
    effects of Malaria in West Africa. People who carry the mutation are less likely to
    die from malaria than people who do not carry the gene. Here is more information
    about Sickle Cell Trait and Malaria:
  • PBS Evolution Story: (video and article)
  • Malaria and Sickle Cell Trait by Welcome Trust: (article)