Garden State Times

The Board of Commissioners and the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services held a ceremony on Thursday to mark Sickle Cell Community Warrior Day during National Public Health Week. The event, conducted alongside CAMcare, Cooper Hospital/MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the Sickle Cell Association of NJ, focused on increasing awareness about sickle cell disease and highlighted the importance of continued research, testing, and treatment efforts for those affected.

Commissioner Virginia Betteridge emphasized the significance of the event, stating, "In honor of National Public Health Week, Camden County is coming together to shine a light on this disease. Sickle cell disease impacts nearly 130,000 Americans in major ways. We hope that our efforts to raise awareness about the disease will lead to better outcomes for people here in South Jersey and beyond."

Sickle cell disease is a hereditary condition affecting approximately 130,000 individuals in the United States. The disorder is characterized by the production of abnormal hemoglobin, leading to rigid and sickle-shaped red blood cells. These deformed cells can obstruct blood vessels, hindering blood and oxygen circulation throughout the body.

Sufferers face numerous complications, including severe pain, the risk of stroke, acute chest syndrome, potential organ damage, and sometimes premature death. Although there have been significant advances in diagnosis and supportive care for the disorder, many patients continue to face challenges in accessing effective treatment and appropriate medical care.