WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH), along with U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC), introduced a resolution calling for greater research into sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease, and greater education and screening for sickle cell trait.

“Sickle cell trait can lead to many medical complications – but too often, individuals don’t even know they carry the trait,” said Brown. “As a nation, we must commit ourselves not just to gaining a better understanding of the trait and sickle cell disease through research, but must also develop a better strategy for helping patients understand their trait status and receive the appropriate counseling.”

Sickle cell disease, while considered a rare disease, is the most commonly inherited blood disorder in the United States and affects approximately 100,000 people in the U.S. More than three million people in the U.S. inherit one sickle cell gene, known as sickle cell trait, but are unaware that they have inherited the trait. The trait disproportionately affects African Americans and Hispanic Americans.

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