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How does sickle cell anemia affect blood and oxygen transport?
Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin gene. This makes some red blood cells become stiff, sticky, and sickle-shaped instead of soft and round. These abnormal cells can block small blood vessels, reduce oxygen delivery to tissues, and break down faster than normal red blood cells. This may lead to anemia, pain episodes, fatigue, organ stress, and circulation problems.