Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a hereditary blood condition present from birth. People with this condition experience anemia and painful episodes known as vaso-occlusive crises. In most cases, a newborn blood screening identifies this blood disorder early at birth. At Broward Health, we are dedicated to caring for children with SCA.
All newborns in the United States are tested for sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait as part of newborn screening. Before the baby leaves the hospital, the baby's blood is tested. If the results aren't normal, the baby's provider may recommend a diagnostic test to determine if the baby has sickle cell disease or something else and refer to Broward Health.
From the very beginning, our team of experts works closely with families to help educate them about living with SCA. Our experts explain the genetics and medical aspects of the condition, working with the family to develop a treatment plan. We also discuss the increased risk of infections and how we use penicillin to help prevent serious infections.
During the first year after diagnosis, we ask families to bring in their children every two months. These visits help us monitor their hemoglobin levels and educate families about the condition. Through these regular visits, we create a strong, comprehensive medical team to support each patient and family.
For children who have frequent pain crises, we offer several treatment options:
Our Sickle Cell Program offers a comprehensive range of services to support your child's health and well-being. We provide lab work to monitor the severity of sickle cell disease and outpatient pain management in select cases of pain crises. Blood transfusions are available to help manage pain crises as well.
We also offer psychological counseling and patient support groups to help families cope. Our educational resources ensure you understand every aspect of SCA. Regular appointments with our expert hematologists are part of our commitment to your child's care.
Our specialized care teams provide access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical research. Our board-certified specialists in SCA are championing change and aim to expand our research efforts to help make a difference. While we do not perform bone marrow transplants, we have robust referral partnerships should this treatment be needed.
We partner with other local children’s hospitals to provide cutting-edge treatments, such as gene therapy for SCA.
We are known for the strong relationships we build with our patients. Our specialists are very accessible, often seeing new patients the very next day if they have all their records. We also offer support groups for patient families.
Broward Health and the Salah Foundation Children's Hospital support sickle cell patients from diagnosis to treatment. Our specialized team, including compassionate nurses, nurse practitioners, and board-certified hematologists, combines medical expertise with a caring approach for all patients.
Our team of specialists is here to provide expert care for SCA. Find a doctor who understands your child's needs and book an appointment today.
Find a DoctorAccess our comprehensive and expert support and resources for managing sickle cell anemia. Join our support groups and learn more about the condition to help your family thrive.
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