DE HCR154

Designates September 2024 as Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month in Delaware to educate communities about the disease, early detection methods, effective treatments, and preventative care.

Recognizes that approximately 600 patients live with sickle cell disease in Delaware, with over 99% identifying as minorities.

Notes that ChristianaCare operates a comprehensive Adult Sickle Cell Program serving approximately 200 patients, while Nemours Children's Health provides care for 259 SCD patients.

Acknowledges that two-thirds to three-fourths of ChristianaCare SCD patients are on disease-modifying therapy but face challenges accessing regular care, with approximately one-third living in Kent and Sussex County requiring travel to New Castle County for treatment.

Recognizes Delaware's participation in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Sickle Cell Data Collection Program to increase statewide data collection on SCD patients and inform policy development.