June 19

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day

Show your support on World Sickle Cell Awareness Day - help spread awareness and raise funds to fight against this debilitating disease!

Yearly Date

June 19

Observed

Internationally

Introduction

Celebrate World Sickle Cell Awareness Day on June 19 and join the global fight against this debilitating genetic disorder! This day is an annual reminder of the importance of raising awareness about sickle cell disease and its effects on individuals, families, and communities around the world. It provides a great opportunity to learn more about sickle cell disease, how it's diagnosed and treated, and how we can support those affected by it. So let’s come together on June 19th to show our solidarity in the fight against sickle cell disease!

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day Timeline

1910

Sickle Cell Disease Identified

Dr. James B. Herrick, an American physician, became the first to identify sickle cell disease.

1949

Genetic Basis Confirmed

Dr. Linus Pauling and associates confirmed sickle cell disease as a genetic condition, caused by the inheritance of a mutated gene from both parents.

1972

Screening Program Initiated

The U.S initiated a universal newborn screening program for sickle cell disease, becoming the first country worldwide to do so.

1998

Hydroxyurea Approved

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of Hydroxyurea for adults with severe sickle cell disease – the first effective drug treatment.

2008

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day Established

The United Nations General Assembly recognized sickle cell disease as a public health problem and "one of the world's foremost genetic diseases". This led to the establishment of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day.

How to Celebrate World Sickle Cell Awareness Day

1 Attend a sickle cell awareness event

Find a local event that is aimed at raising awareness of sickle cell disease and attend. You can learn about the condition, meet other people affected by it, and support this important cause.

2 Educate yourself

Take some time to do your own research and learn more about sickle cell disease. Visit websites like the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to learn more about the condition and how it affects people.

3 Donate to a sickle cell charity

Donating money or time to a charity that supports people living with sickle cell disease is a great way to show your support. Research organizations that provide services such as financial assistance, counseling, and education.

4 Spread the word

Raise awareness of sickle cell disease by talking to friends, family and colleagues about it. You can also use social media to spread the message. Post links to reputable websites or use hashtags such as #SickleCellAwarenessDay.

5 Volunteer

Find a local organization that supports people living with sickle cell disease and volunteer your time. There are many ways you can help, from being an advocate for patients in hospitals to helping with fundraisers and events.

Why World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is Important

Raise awareness about sickle cell disease

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day serves as a platform to raise awareness of this devastating disease. It's important to spread the word about the prevalence and severity of this condition, so that people can become educated on how best to prevent, treat and manage it.

Encourage research & development

By recognizing World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, we are encouraging further research into this condition in the hopes of eventually finding new treatments and cures. We need to support the medical professionals and scientists that are working tirelessly to combat this horrific disease.

Recognize those affected by sickle cell

Every year, countless individuals are impacted by sickle cell disease. World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is an opportunity to recognize their courage and resilience, and to show them our support during this difficult journey. It is also a chance to thank the many caregivers who are supporting those affected by the condition each and every day.