The misconceptions about Sickle Cell Disease in local communities and among health care professionals can be problematic. Family members, law enforcement, paramedics and hospital staff who aren’t educated about Sickle Cell Disease often subject those suffering from the ailment to unfair treatment and stigma because the misinterpret their symptoms for other conditions.
The communities at large, including health care workers and institutions, plays an important part on the attachment of stigma. For example, often people with Sickle Cell Disease are turned down for financial aid when it comes to disability allowances.
Sickle Cell Disease should be class as a disability because of the health risks involved, including excruciating pain that comes with crisis. Administrative Workers, especially people who are making decisions about disability benefits should be more educated about Sickle Cell Disease and have compassion for people going through this malady.