Milwaukee to host 2024 Sickle cell summit on sep 18

Versiti Blood Center and Milwaukee’s Health Department will present the 2024 Sickle Cell Summit on September 18. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Milwaukee City Hall. Health Commissioner Michael Totoraitis, PhD, will host the summit. The summit addresses healthcare needs for those affected by sickle cell disease. It invites patients, families, caregivers, and community stakeholders. It coincides with National Sickle Cell Awareness Month in September.

Sickle cell disease affects about 100,000 Americans and is the most common inherited blood disorder in the United States. In December 2023, the FDA approved the first gene therapies for sickle cell. These treatments offer long-lasting results for patients.

Dr. Yvette Miller of the American Red Cross highlighted the importance of blood donors. “Without their generosity, these treatments simply won’t be possible,” she stated. Patients undergoing gene therapy need blood and platelet transfusions throughout treatment. This support is crucial before, during, and after the procedure.

Many patients awaiting gene therapy require monthly blood transfusions. These transfusions help maintain stable hemoglobin levels and bone marrow health. The treatment process also involves stem cell collection and red blood cell exchanges, which rely heavily on blood donations. President Biden’s administration aims to expand access to these treatments, as a recent proclamation states. They’re working to make cell and gene therapies more available.

Registration for the Milwaukee summit starts at 9 a.m. Attendees can expect discussions on these new treatments and donation needs.