Survival rates for people with sickle cell disease have greatly improved over the last 40 years, and pediatrician Kathryn Scott believes a cure is likely within the lifetime of her young patients. Scott directs the pediatric sickle cell program at Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital. She discusses stem cell transplants and the promise of gene therapy in this week’s show.
"Most of my young patients grow up with a good quality of life," Scott says. Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder of the red blood cells that affects mostly people of African descent. A newborn screening test detects babies that are born with the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment, along with better supportive care, are responsible for extending the lifespan of people with this disease.
Also this week: advances for acute stroke, and a possible cause of Crohn's disease.
Join us this Sunday, September 17 at 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. for "HealthLink on Air."