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FACTS ABOUT NASCO [[NASCD]]
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The National Association for Sickle Cell Disease, Inc. (NASCD) is a voluntary organization of community groups involved in sickle cell programs throughout the nation and the Bahamas. NASCD is the only national association established to combat a health problem in the Black community, and is the only national volunteer organization working full time, on a national level, for comprehensive sickle cell disease programming.

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disease which affects Black Americans. One out of 500 Blacks has been estimated to have sickle cell anemia, and one out of 12 Blacks has sickle cell trait. Other races who have been found to have sickle cell trait include those of Mediterranean descent...Spanish, Greek, Italian, Sicilian, Turkish, and East Indian.

There is no cure for sickle cell disease. Researchers have not yet been able to identify any substance or procedure which can be administered easily, and will prevent red blood cells from sickling without causing harmful side effects. While the search for a cure continues, sickle cell education, screening, and counseling programs offer the most effective measures for controlling the incidence of the disease.

The NASCD and its affiliate member organizations participate in a variety of activities to keep the public aware of the impact and implications of sickle cell anemia. Programs include counselor training, preparation and distribution of educational materials worldwide, conducting workshops and seminars, providing technical assistance at the national, state, and local levels. Under the leadership of the NASCD, hundreds of genetic counselors have been trained in may communities in the United States, Africa, and the Bahamas to provide non-directive sickle cell trait counseling. Other services provided by member organizations include blood banks, testing and screening, tutorial services, summer camps for children with sickle cell anemia, and vocational rehabilitation. NASCD provides support for research activities leading to improved treatment and eventual cure.

The programs and services provided by the NASCD are available to everyone, regardless of age or circumstances.

The National Association for Sickle Cell Disease and its affiliates are supported by voluntary contributions from the general public, and from thousands of federal and postal employees, and military personnel through the Combined Federal Campaign. All contributions are tax deductible.

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NASCD BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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