In 1992 a Sickle Cell Support Group was started in Croydon under the auspices of a registered charity; however this group became dormant for a number of years and was revived by the centre manager Christine Williams in 1998 when the present Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia services commenced on Whitehorse Road. The current Croydon Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Support Group gained charitable status in August 2003.
Our group has consistently strove to achieve and remain focused on the objectives set out in our constitution.  These are:

• The relief of need, hardship and distress of people affected by sickle cell and thalassaemia, their families and their carers, so as to empower them and improve their quality of life.

• The advancement of education and training, in particular to those affected so as to improve their opportunities to find gainful employment.

• The preservation of good health for individuals with sickle cell and Thlassaemia.

Who Does Sickle Cell Affect

Sickle Cell Disease is the commonest genetically inherited condition in England. It is more prevalent but not exclusive to people of African and Caribbean descent. It is also found in people from South and Central America, the Mediterranean, Middle East and Asia.
What is sickle cell disease? Sickle cell disease is the name for a group of inherited disorders of haemoglobin where two significant unusual genes are present.
The condition is present at birth but effects experienced from about six months of age.
The commonest types are haemoglobin SS ( Hb SS ) also called sickle cell anaemia this is the severest type.
Hb Sf and Hb SB are usually milder however once you have sickle cell disease you can be affected by any of the complications and should observe medical advise.
When people have Sickle cell disease their red blood cells change from the usual soft round shape to a hard half moon shape. These stick together and block the flow of blood and oxygen causing pain and serious complications.
There is no universal cure for sickle cell disease but with improved management people are experiencing better quality of life and are living longer. There are no limits to the achievements of people affected with sickle cell if the appropriate support is available and accessed.
Sickle Cell Carrier (trait) There are about 1000 different types of unusual haemoglobin. Common ones are S, C, B, D, E, When only one unusual gene is inherited it is referred to as carrier. It is very important that people who carry an unusual gene encourage their partners to be screened before starting a family.
There are no signs or symptoms if you are a carrier of an unusual gene so before starting a family.

GET WISE AND GET TESTED BEFORE STARTING A FAMILY
For more information Contact Croydon Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Centre 0208 251 7229 Opening hours 9 AM to 5 PM Monday to Friday.