The Importance of Blood Transfusions in the SCD Community
With more than 100,000 American living with SCD in the U.S. and no universal cure, those living with the disease rely on treatments for survival. Blood transfusions is one of, if not the most, critical treatment for those impacted by SCD. Red blood cell transfusions reduce the risk of some complications of sickle cell disease by replenishing healthy red blood cells to the patient’s body.
There are two types of red blood cell transfusions: simple and exchange. Simple transfusions add additional red blood cells to patients’ bodies. Marqus typically had this type once a month and always noted feeling much more energetic after each exchange. Before he traveled, he made sure to schedule an exchange to ensure his energy was renewed. Exchange transfusions replace sticky, sickled red blood cells with healthy red blood cells. Over the years, we’ve spoken to several members of the community who rely on exchange transfusions over medications to maintain their health; although many depend on both.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, blood donation levels have been alarmingly low across the country. In fact, the Chicago Tribune recently reported that Illinois was facing critically low blood supply shortage and specifically called for Black donors, who are essential for SCD patients. “Blood type matches are usually found in people of the same race,” said Francesa Valentine, Marqus’s mother and retired nurse (BSN). “That’s why it’s imperative for a diverse group of donors to give. It’ll help save the lives of all people.”
