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By JoAnn Beasley, RN, BS

State of Georgia Sickle Cell Newborn Coordinator, Clinical Manager of Georgia Comprehensive Newborn Screening Program

What is sickle cell newborn screening?

Who gets tested in most states?

How is the testing done?

What is sickle disease?

Who gets sickle cell trait and disease?

How did my baby get sickle cell disease?

What if my baby has sickle cell disease?

What will happen to my baby?

Infection – your baby is at higher risk to get serious infections. Fevers should be reported right away to your doctor or emergency facility.

Anemia – fewer than normal red blood cells. With fewer red blood cells tissues and organs do not get the oxygen they need.

Harm to body organs – because these abnormal red blood cells flow throughout the body many organs of the body can be damaged over time.

Painful episodes – these painful episodes are also called a pain crisis. Pain and swelling occurs most often in the hands and feet with babies. This episode is called dactylitis or hand and foot syndrome.

Will my baby die?

What should I ask my doctor?

(especially if you want additional children)

Ask a question – contact the Sickle Cell Center staff at aplatt@emory.edu

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