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- Out of all TBA registrants in all service areas in 2009, 7% were
African-American.
- Dozens of children with sickle cell syndromes are treated throughout our service area every three-four weeks with red cell transfusions to avoid early complications such as stroke, lung disease or painful crisis.
- A stroke can occur when sickle-shaped cells block a blood vessel in the brain. About 10 percent of children with Sickle Cell Disease have a stroke.
- Regular transfusions also reduce the risk of another stroke in children who already have had one stroke. A recent study showed that this treatment must be continued indefinitely because when treatment is stopped, a high risk of stroke returns.
- Blood donors of African heritage are the best donors for children with sickle cell anemia, and are needed to ensure a supply of blood for the chronic treatment of the disease.
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