Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a complex group of inherited blood disorders associated with debilitating pain and complications that can affect the entire body. SCD affects about 100,000 people in the United States; more than 90% are non-Hispanic Black or African American, and an estimated 3%-9% are Hispanic or Latino.
Through evidence-based resources and targeted information, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) is supporting organized systems of care that help individuals and families affected by SCD live longer, healthier lives and support the Administration’s mission to Make America Healthy Again.
Resources
Sickle Cell Disease Research, Programs, and Progress
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Sickle Cell Disease Data, Resources, and More
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Sickle Cell Disease Topic Guide
HHS OMH Knowledge Center
Observances and Events
Follow the HHS OMH on X (English and Spanish), Instagram, and Facebook for updates on events, observances, and resources related to sickle cell disease.
June 19: World Sickle Cell Day
World Sickle Cell Day is observed annually with the goal to increase public knowledge and an understanding of sickle cell disease, and the challenges experienced by patients and their families and caregivers.
September 1 - 30: National Sickle Cell Awareness Month
National Sickle Cell Awareness Month is observed in September to raise awareness about SCD and the challenges faced by those living with it. This month focuses on increasing understanding of SCD, promoting research, and supporting individuals and families affected by the condition.
Sickle Cell Disease and Gene Therapies Webinar Series
In observance of National Sickle Cell Awareness Month 2025, HHS OMH partnered with the HHS Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) to host a two-part webinar series on sickle cell disease (SCD) and gene therapies.
Part 1—Trust, Clinical Trials, and Transformative Therapies: Ethical Pathways in Gene Therapy and Sickle Cell Disease
Part 2—Innovations and Advances in Sickle Cell Disease Gene Therapies
Date Last Reviewed: February 2026