Myths
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People with Sickle Cell Disease are drug addicts
False - Sickle cell is deemed one of the most painful diseases. Therefore opioid pain relief, such as morphine, during episodes of acute pain due to blood sickling(known as crisis), is often warranted for treatment.
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People with Sickle Cell Disease only live up to 21
False - People with the condition, if well managed can expect to live long and fulfilling lives.
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People with Sickle Cell Disease are Immune to Malaria
False - People with Sickle Cell Disease are more likely to suffer life threatening infection with malaria. People with sickle cell trait when they contract malaria, often have less severe outcomes.