MI SR0220

Recognizes the November 30, 2016 diversity in clinical trial forum sponsored by the Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Association of America, Michigan Chapter

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder affecting approximately 90,000 Americans, occurring in 1 of every 500 African American births and 1 of every 36,000 Latino births

Only one disease-modifying medication is available and there is no universal cure; patients face barriers including limited geographic access to comprehensive care and shortage of knowledgeable healthcare providers

Approximately 2 million Americans carry sickle cell trait, which occurs in 1 of every 12 African Americans and 1 of every 100 Latinos; complications are rare and individuals with the trait should not be excluded from physical activity

September is recognized as National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, officially recognized at the federal level in 1983 to draw attention to the disease and its impact on affected individuals' lives, education, and careers