World Sickle Cell Day observed on 19th June

World Sickle Cell Day observed on 19th June

 World Sickle Cell Day is celebrated every year on 19 June to spread awareness about sickle cell disease at the national and international level. The United Nations General Assembly officially announced in the year 2008 that every year 19 June would be observed as World Sickle Cell Day.

 This day is celebrated to raise awareness about sickle cell disease, its treatment measures and to achieve effective control of this disease around the world. The first World Sickle Cell Day was celebrated in the year 2009.

Sickle Cell Disease

 Sickle cell disease (SCD) or sickle cell anemia is a major hereditary disorder of red blood cells in which these red blood cells are shaped like a Sickle. These abnormally shaped red blood cells (RBCs) become hard and sticky and become trapped in blood vessels, which reduce or stop the flow of blood and oxygen to many parts of the body. This abnormal size also shortens the lifespan of RBCs and causes anemia, known as sickle cell anemia.