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Slate News

What Next: TBD | Is Sickle Cell Anemia…Cured?

Nov 24, 2024
Gina Kolata, a medical reporter for The New York Times, shares insights on sickle cell anemia's latest gene therapy developments. Deb Cromer discusses her son Kendrick's inspiring journey as the first to receive this treatment. They explore the emotional and logistical challenges families face, particularly regarding access to this groundbreaking therapy. The conversation highlights hopes for a potential cure while addressing systemic barriers and the importance of awareness in the journey to understanding this condition.
35:06

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Quick takeaways

  • The gene therapy for sickle cell anemia represents a major medical advancement but is accompanied by high costs and accessibility challenges for families.
  • The emotional journey of Kendrick Cromer's parents highlights the resilience required to navigate the complexities of a debilitating disease and its treatments.

Deep dives

Understanding Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder that affects over 20 million people globally, with a significant prevalence among the Black community in the U.S. It is characterized by the transformation of healthy red blood cells into sharp, crescent-shaped cells that lead to severe pain and blockages in blood flow. Deb and Keith Cromer, parents of Kendrick, recount their emotional journey upon discovering their son had this condition just weeks after his birth. Despite the devastating news and the hardships that followed, including numerous missed school days due to pain crises, the family’s resilience and hope have shone through.

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