World Sickle Cell Day (WSD) has been celebrated annually since 2008. It is held every year to increase public awareness and knowledge about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

This date was selected to honor the official adoption by the General Assembly of the United Nations of a resolution recognizing SCD as a concern in public health.

Millions of people worldwide are affected by SCD, including children and adults. It can be fatal and is, according to the World Health Organization(WHO), one of the leading causes of premature death in children under five years old in several African countries.

Special educational celebrations are held by some health organizations that provide SCD support or treatment. Even if you are unable to attend, you can spend the day learning about the disease, its symptoms, and understanding its global impact.