The Mount Sinai Center for Sickle Cell Disease at the Icahn School of Medicine provides comprehensive care to more than 1400 individuals with sickle cell disease across the lifespan, making it one of the largest in the country. The Center is a leader in clinical care, providing access to several cutting-edge therapies and research. With more than $25 million in funding, it is one of only two dedicated Sickle Cell Fellowships in the United States.
Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is caused by abnormal types of hemoglobin, a protein inside red blood cells that carries oxygen. The abnormal hemoglobin, called hemoglobin S, causes red blood cells to become fragile and look like crescents or sickles. While hemoglobin S is the most common abnormality, there are other types of hemoglobin, such as hemoglobin C, that can also cause sickle cell disease. The abnormal red blood cells deliver less oxygen to tissues in the body and can get stuck in small blood vessels, interrupting healthy blood flow. Sickle cell disease is inherited from both parents. It is more common in people of African and Mediterranean descent. At Mount Sinai, we care for all forms of sickle cell disease.
Our Program
Our sickle cell program offers comprehensive care and the most advanced breakthroughs in treatments that dramatically improve outcomes for patients. We strive to join clinical care and scientific research along with psychosocial services to provide the best care available anywhere. Our team includes dedicated physicians, advanced practice providers, and social workers who specialize in sickle cell disease and who expertly manage both the acute and chronic complications that sickle cell disease may cause. Our social workers strive to partner with patients to manage the psychosocial complexities that may also occur while living with sickle cell disease.