Sickle cell disease can affect reproductive and sexual health of men and women. Men can have priapism (an erection lasting 4 or more hours), which can lead to sexual problems. Women face high-risk pregnancies, which could also worsen sickle cell symptoms.| NHLBI, NIH
Sickle cell disease can cause pain, infections, and joint problems throughout the body. It can also lead to severe anemia and complications in specific body parts.| NHLBI, NIH
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen through the body. Misshapen red blood cells can block blood flow causing lifelong health problems. The only cure is a blood and bone marrow transplant, but treatments are available to manage the condition.| NHLBI, NIH
