two different siblings,” their Aihes’ physician, Dr. David Shook, told WESH.
“It’s kind of a bit of a miracle, in my opinion,” Kingsley adds.
“I feel like God made it happen for us,” Aihe shares.
It is estimated that:
- SCD affects approximately 100,000 Americans.
- SCD occurs among about 1 out of every 365 Black or African-American births.
- SCD occurs among about 1 out of every 16,300 Hispanic-American births.
- About 1 in 13 Black or African-American babies is born with sickle cell trait (SCT).
RELATED: 5 Signs That You Should Get Tested For The Sickle Cell Trait
Unlike sickle cell disease, individuals with sickle cell trait carry only one defective gene and typically live normal lives. Rarely, extreme conditions such as severe dehydration and high-intensity physical activity can lead to serious health issues, including sudden death, for individuals with sickle cell trait.
If an individual has sickle cell trait, it means that he or she carries or has inherited a single copy of the gene that causes sickle cell disease. It is possible for individuals with sickle cell trait to pass the gene to their children.
If you suspect that you or your child has the sickle cell trait, contact your doctor about getting tested.