Children’s Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University hosts Twitter chat with sickle cell expert on Sept. 30

By Shira Pollard
Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU

Sickle cell disease is the most common serious inherited blood disorder and the sickle cell trait occurs among about one in 12 births. Sickle cell causes red blood cells to change into a curved, sickle shape. These sickle-shaped red blood cells stick together to block blood flow to the hands, feet, joints, bones and organs. Sickle cell causes numerous complications including pain, infections, stroke and anemia.

“Our sickle cell team cares for approximately 300 children and adolescents each year,” said India Y. Sisler, M.D., assistant professor in the Division of Hematology and Oncology at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU.  “We focus on treating the whole child, educating families and empowering our patients to successfully manage their sickle cell to limit complications.”

On Wednesday, Sisler will be available on Twitter to answer questions about sickle cell disease complications, medication management, treatment and bone marrow transplant.   

Patients, families, health care professionals and community members are invited to sign into their Twitter accounts and join the conversation. Questions will be answered by Sisler from 3 to 4 p.m. on Sept. 30. Just remember to use the hashtag #VCUHealthChat when posting questions and comments.

Questions can be submitted in advance via Twitter using #VCUHealthChat and @VCUHealth or @ChildrensRVA on Twitter.