Expanding Possibilities in Sickle Cell Care

Treatment for sickle cell disease seems to be entering a new era of possibilities. 

Earlier this year, investigators at Johns Hopkins reported a 95% cure rate among patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) who underwent bone marrow transplantation using mismatched donors. This remarkable achievement, along with cumulative information on ongoing gene therapy trials in SCD, reflect the rapid progress being made across stem cell transplantation, gene therapy, transfusion medicine and comprehensive clinical care. Together, these advances are expanding treatment options and creating new opportunities for patients and families. 

For generations, care for patients with SCD was primarily focused on managing pain and preventing complications. While significant challenges remain, scientific innovation is improving outcomes in ways once deemed impossible. From curative transplantation to gene editing technologies, breakthroughs that once seemed unimaginable are becoming clinical realities. Victoria Gray, featured in our September 2024 issue, became the first person with SCD to be cured using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. Her story is just one example of how innovation is transforming the landscape of SCD therapy.  

Improving Outcomes

This issue of AABB News focuses on new frontiers in sickle cell treatment. Our cover story examines the challenges of navigating pregnancy with SCD. In this article, a mother with SCD shares her perspective on transfusion support and comprehensive care alongside a maternal-fetal specialist and a transfusion medicine physician.

The second feature explores treatment options for SCD management. Experts discuss the benefits and limitations of available therapies, the importance of shared decision-making and individualized treatment plans, and the growing recognition that earlier intervention may improve long-term outcomes. 

This issue also spotlights individuals helping to shape the future of sickle cell care. Tara King shares how her mother's experience with SCD inspired a career at OneBlood dedicated to supporting patients through transfusion medicine. Additionally, in this month’s “In Conversation” column, the founders of the Sikila app discuss how technology can help empower patients with SCD to better manage their health. Finally, in recognition of World Sickle Cell Day, we also feature Amy Cohen, the first sickle cell warrior to complete a marathon. Her historic accomplishment challenges longstanding, now outmoded, misconceptions about what people with SCD can achieve.  

Collectively, these stories demonstrate that advances in science, technology and patient-centered care are creating opportunities that were difficult to imagine only a decade ago. 

Join Us in Atlanta

Registration for the 2026 AABB Annual Meeting is now open. The blood and biotherapies field’s premier event will bring community members from throughout the world to Atlanta, Oct. 17-19, to connect, learn and advance the field. 

This issue features an interview with Steven Armstrong, DHA, MLS(AMT), SBB(ASCP), FACHE, chair of AABB’s Annual Meeting Education Committee. Learn more about this year's educational offerings,  new meeting enhancements and expanded networking opportunities designed to help attendees connect and grow professionally.  

There is still time to take advantage of the early-bird registration rates. Register by July 21 to save up to $325 and receive early access to hotels and events. 

I look forward to seeing you in Atlanta. 

Jose Cancelas, MD, PhD, CABP
AABB President