Since I was born before the National Newborn Screening program started in the early 90s, none of my siblings were tested at birth for Sickle Cell Disease or Trait. During my school years, I asked my mom if she or my father carried the Sickle Cell Trait. She assured me that the trait did not run on her side of the family, but my father’s side was unknown. Not until my cousin shared with me that he carried the sickle cell trait did I start to re-examine my family tree. Hence, the Sickle Cell Trait runs on both sides of my family and the need for trait testing is greater than ever. About 1 in 12 African-Americans carry the Sickle Cell Trait. So, if you are at church or at a family function, most likely, your loved ones are trait carriers. Get Tested, it only takes a few minutes of your time. Information is Power.
All the best, Dr. Nina
TOVA Community Health
Sickle Cell Specialty Treatment Center
601 New Castle Ave.
Wilmington, DE 19801
(302) 655-6187 ext. 500
