June 19th is World Sickle Cell Awareness Day
Today, Morehouse School of Medicine recognizes World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, a global observance dedicated to increasing understanding of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and the urgent outcome variations that surround it.
Sickle Cell Disease is a chronic, inherited blood disorder that primarily affects people of African descent, along with individuals from Hispanic and certain Mediterranean or Middle Eastern backgrounds. It can lead to extreme pain, organ damage, stroke and in many cases, premature death. While medical advances have improved outcomes, the journey for patients remains deeply unequal.
More than 16,000 Georgians are currently living with SCD, placing our state among the highest in the nation. Yet nationally, only 1 in 4 patients receive the comprehensive care they need — a reflection of long-standing gaps in access, resources and culturally competent care.
At Morehouse School of Medicine, our commitment to leading the creation and advancement of health equity is unwavering. We work to ensure that communities impacted by Sickle Cell Disease are not left behind. Through research, education and training the next generation of physicians and scientists, we strive to close the care gap and improve outcomes for those living with this disease.
As part of that work, Dr. Solomon Ofori-Acquah leads the Georgia Solve Sickle Cell Initiative — a statewide effort to expand access to new therapies and treatment options for children with SCD. As Georgia Research Alliance Eminent Scholar and Vice Chair of Research in the Department of Pediatrics at MSM, Dr. Ofori-Acquah collaborates with investigators across Georgia to broaden treatment reach, conduct clinical trials and deepen the scientific understanding of sickle cell disease. His work also advances research education and training for faculty, residents and students within the Department of Pediatrics, helping to shape the next generation of physician-scientists focused on healthcare access optimization.
On this day of awareness, we honor the resilience of individuals and families facing SCD and reaffirm our role in the movement to achieve health justice for all.
Learn More
To explore the science, care and health outcome gaps related to Sickle Cell Disease, visit www.sicklecellga.org.
About the Author
Michael Martin is a content strategist who believes in crafting compelling stories that inspire and connect. With a pen for storytelling, he brings the journeys of future physicians to life, highlighting their impact and dedication to healthcare.
Contact
Michael Martin
Digital Content Strategist
Office of Marketing & Communications
mamartin@msm.edu