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Sickle Cell: Fighting for Care…

Sickle cell disease is the fastest growing genetic condition in the UK and it predominantly affects black people. Why do some people feel that sickle cell isn't taken seriously?

Sickle cell is the fastest growing genetic condition in the UK and it predominantly affects black people. But why do some feel that sickle cell isn't taken seriously?

We follow nurse and sickle cell patient, Gildé Nsianguana as she explores why there is distrust between some patients and medical staff. Some in the sickle cell community feel that lack of knowledge and even systemic racism have led to devastating outcomes, including death.

Gildé meets the parents of Evan Nathan Smith, who died after dialling 999 from his hospital bed because he wasn't being given the correct treatment. An inquest ruled that his death could have been prevented. Evan wasn't listened to when he correctly told medical staff that he desperately needed oxygen support.

Gildé goes on to explore what lessons have been learned and whether the approach to treating sickle cell is changing and improving.

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10 minutes

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