Sickle Cell Awareness Month - What you need to know

Kim Geib, DNP, ARNP, A-GNP-C, CPH

Director, Disease Control and School Health Services

October 4, 2016 10:00 a.m.

As the school year is now underway and student athletes are training and

participating in competitive events, Sickle Cell Awareness Month is a reminder that persons should learn if their family has a history of Sickle Cell Trait(SCT). SCT occurs in high frequency among people of African or Middle Eastern descent but is also common in those of Indian/South Asia or Mediterranean origin. Most people with SCT do not have any health problems, but rarely a few problems can occur, such as pain when traveling or exercising at high altitudes, increased potential for dehydration and heat exhaustion.

During routine childhood wellness exams health care providers can interview and test for SCT, and provide appropriate guidance for athletes. Sports team coaches and the public should be aware that dehydration and heat exhaustion is potentially related to SCT trait, and it is important to maintain hydration during training and competitive events. For further information, please review this attached public information from the Florida Department of Health and resources from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Should you have questions or need additional information feel free to contact Kim Geib, Florida Department of Health - Nassau, 904-530-6804.