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Living Well with Sickle Cell Disease

Date: 09/05/25

Each September communities across the country honor National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. This time shines a light on the strength of people living with sickle cell disease (SCD) and brings attention to the need for more research, better treatments, and hope for a cure.

Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in the United States. It affects about 100,000 Americans and more than 20 million people worldwide, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. With SCD red blood cells are not round and flexible. Instead, they are shaped like a crescent, or “sickle.” These cells can block blood flow, which may cause serious problems like stroke, infections, vision issues, and episodes of severe pain called pain crises.

For many years, treatment options were limited. People with SCD often had to manage painful symptoms on their own. Today, thanks to new research, treatments, and healthy lifestyle habits, many people with SCD can improve their quality of life.

Tips to Support Your Health and Wellness

If you are living with sickle cell disease, these steps may help support both your body and mind:

  • See your healthcare team often. Work with your doctors to build a care plan that meets your needs.
  • Live a healthy lifestyle. Stay active, drink 8–10 glasses of water daily, eat heart-healthy foods, and quit smoking or vaping. Protect yourself from infections with vaccines and handwashing.
  • Manage pain early. At the first sign of a pain crisis, drink plenty of fluids and try an over-the-counter NSAID pain medicine. If the pain gets worse, go to the emergency department. Your doctor may prescribe stronger medicine if needed.
  • Care for your mental health. Living with SCD can be stressful. Talk with friends, family, or a mental health professional. Asking for help is a sign of strength.

We’re Here to Support You

You do not have to manage sickle cell disease alone. Our Care Management Program provides one-on-one support to help you on your health journey. A dedicated nurse or care manager can:

  • Help you create a personal care plan with your providers.
  • Connect you to specialists, resources, and community support.
  • Share tips to manage pain and stay healthy between visits.
  • Support your mental health with referrals and regular check-ins.

If you or your loved one is living with sickle cell disease, call Member Services at 1-800-704-1484 (TTY: 1-800-255-0056) and ask about our Care Management Program. Together, we can help you manage your condition and live life to the fullest.

Extra Benefits to Support Your Journey

As a member, you may also have access to special Value-Added Benefits (VABs) that can support your health:

  • Mental Health Support: Talk with licensed therapists through Grow Therapy or check in daily with the Pyx Health app for emotional support and wellness tools.
  • Nutrition & Healthy Living: Use benefits like food delivery and free gym memberships to eat well, stay active, and strengthen your body. These are important steps in lowering complications from sickle cell disease.
  • Over-the-Counter (OTC) Benefit: Get a monthly allowance to buy everyday health items such as pain relievers, bandages, vitamins, and more to help you stay well.

Have questions? Ask your Care Manager or call Member Services at 1-800-704-1484 (TTY: 1-800-255-0056) to learn more about the benefits available to you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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