Only African Americans can have sickle cell disease.
a. True
b. False
Sickle cell disease is one of the most common genetic disorders worldwide. It comprises several hemoglobin (Hb) variants, typically involving the beta globin chain, that lead to chronic hemolytic anemia and several other acute and chronic complications. The most common form in North America is Hb SS; other mutations include Hb SC, Hb S-beta thalassemia, Hb SO Arab, Hb SD, and Hb SE. Although affected individuals are usually people of African, Mediterranean, Arab, and Indian ancestry, individuals of other ethnicities may also be affected. The degree of anemia, painful episodes, and organ damage vary widely amongst individuals. The introduction of newborn screening and institution of preventative and new therapeutic measures such as penicillin prophylaxis, chronic transfusions, hydroxyurea, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation have led to significant improvements in the life span and quality of life of children with sickle cell disease.
Answer: b
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