Chad’s Hadje Kaltam explains sickle cell disease
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Hematologist Dr. Hadje Kaltam Abderamane of N’Djamena’s Renaissance Hospital in Chad explained the genetic basis of sickle cell disease and addressed common misconceptions about the condition.
Dr. Kaltam described sickle cell disease as a hereditary genetic illness caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin gene within red blood cells. This mutation causes normal hemoglobin A to be replaced with abnormal hemoglobin S, a molecular change that deforms red blood cells and obstructs small blood vessels.
A child will develop sickle cell disease (genotype SS) only if both parents carry the S gene (genotype AS). Couples with AS genotypes have a 25% chance of having a child with SS, a 50% chance of having a child who carries the S gene (AS), and a 25% chance of having an unaffected child (AA). People with the AS genotype often show no symptoms but can pass the gene on. Dr.
Kaltam cautioned against traditional remedies, stating that no plant can correct a genetic mutation and that claims to do so are fraudulent. While bone marrow transplants can cure the disease, they are expensive. She also emphasized the importance of hydration, drinking over three liters of water daily, to maintain blood fluidity and prevent crises. During a screening event in June, over 200 of 465 people tested didn’t know they carried the S gene, with prevalence exceeding 40% in some areas.
