This page provides data points and curated searches from OMH’s Knowledge Center library catalog related to sickle cell disease within minority populations in the United States and its territories. The number of catalog records for each topic reflect the search results at the time of this page’s latest update.
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells, causing them to become hard, sticky, and sickle (crescent) shaped. These sickle-shaped cells break down faster than normal cells, leading to a shortage of red blood cells, known as anemia. They can also block blood flow in small blood vessels, which may cause pain and serious health problems such as infections, lung complications, and stroke.
SCD affects about 100,000 people in the United States, more than 90% of which are Black/African American. About 1 in 13 Black/African American babies is born with sickle cell trait, meaning they carry one copy of the gene. About 1 in 365 Black/African American babies is born with sickle cell disease.
Visit the HHS OMH Sickle Cell Disease webpage for resources and information you can use to spread awareness about SCD and help create supportive communities for individuals with SCD.
Date Last Reviewed: February 2026