Sickle Cell: Trait vs Disease

Sickle Cell Disease affects the shape of red blood cells (crescent shape), causing blockages. It is common in tribal belts of India.

Sickle Cell Trait (Carrier)

If you have the trait (inherited from one parent), you are generally healthy. You CAN donate Whole Blood. However, your blood might clog certain fine filters used in leukocyte reduction, so we label it specially.

Sickle Cell Disease

If you have the full disease, you are sadly ineligible. You need to preserve your own red cells.