Warriors Without Limits
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What Is Sickle Cell Trait?
Sickle cell trait (SCT) means you carry one sickle cell gene and one normal hemoglobin gene. This is different from sickle cell disease, where you inherit the sickle cell gene from both parents.
Most people with sickle cell trait live completely normal, healthy lives and have no symptoms. However, it's important to know your status for family planning and rare health situations.
Who Has Sickle Cell Trait?
• About 1 in 13 Black or African American babies are born with SCT
• SCT is also common in people with Hispanic, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian heritage
• About 3 million Americans have sickle cell trait
SCT vs. SCD: What's the Difference?
Sickle Cell Trait (SCT)
✓ One sickle gene, one normal gene
✓ Usually no symptoms
✓ Normal life expectancy
✓ Can pass gene to children
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)
• Two sickle genes (or one sickle + one other abnormal gene)
• Causes pain crises and complications
• Requires ongoing medical care
• Can pass gene to children
Family Planning & Inheritance
Understanding how sickle cell is inherited is important if you're planning to have children. Here's what you need to know:
Possible Outcomes When Both Parents Have SCT:
25%
No sickle gene
50%
Sickle cell trait
50%
Sickle cell disease
100%
Chance for each pregnancy
These percentages apply to each pregnancy independently
Genetic Counseling Is Available
If you and your partner both have sickle cell trait, talking to a genetic counselor can help you understand your options and make informed decisions. We can connect you with counseling resources.
Health Considerations for People with SCT
While most people with SCT have no symptoms, there are rare situations where you should take precautions:
Extreme Physical Exertion
In very intense exercise conditions (especially at high altitude or with dehydration), some people with SCT can experience complications. Stay hydrated, take breaks, and gradually build fitness.
High Altitude
Some people with SCT may experience issues at very high altitudes (above 10,000 feet). Talk to your doctor before mountain climbing, flying in unpressurized aircraft, or traveling to high-altitude destinations.
Medical Procedures
Let your healthcare providers know you have SCT, especially before surgery. Some medical procedures may require special precautions.
Testing for Sickle Cell Trait
Most states now test all newborns for sickle cell disease and trait. If you don't know your status, a simple blood test can tell you:
✓ Hemoglobin electrophoresis - The most common test that identifies your hemoglobin types
✓ When to test - Before starting a family, if you're planning a pregnancy, or if you have family history
✓ Cost - Often covered by insurance; free testing may be available at health fairs and community events
Know Your Status
Knowing whether you have sickle cell trait is important for your health and for family planning. We can help you find free or low-cost testing and connect you with genetic counseling if needed.