Sickle Cell Disease Videos

Sickle cell disease affects millions of people around the world, yet many are confused about the origins of the disease and its impacts. Here Duke hematologist, Nirmish Shah, MD, presents basic information about sickle cell disease – including causes and implications for patients --- and explains why it is important to follow closely with your doctor.

Just five years ago, treatments for sickle cell disease were limited and primarily focused on alleviating pain. Thanks to recent advances, today there are alternatives in addition to Hydroxyurea for patients diagnosed with this complex disease. Also, treatment is beginning earlier -- before pain and other complications occur. Here Duke hematologist, Nirmish Shah, MD, dispels myths surrounding sickle cell disease and discusses various new treatment options.

Children with sickle cell disease and their families can face unpredictable health problems, school stressors, financial burdens, and more. If not adequately addressed, these issues can lead to mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and feelings of low self-esteem. That’s why it’s important to work with providers and school staff. They can help you overcome those challenges and point you to psychosocial and other resources to ensure your child -- and your family -- thrive Here, Ashley Jones, a clinical social worker at Duke Health addresses the unique difficulties of living with sickle cell disease and how your child’s medical team can help.

The only known cure for sickle cell disease is a stem cell transplant, but this procedure can be risky and is not for everyone. Here, a former sickle cell disease patient and Joanne Kurtzberg, MD, a pediatric bone marrow transplant specialist at Duke Health, talk about the journey to a cure.