The sickle shape of the red blood cells results
in a short lifespan of usually 20–30 days and,
subsequently, lifelong anaemia. Sickle blood cells
cause blockages in blood vessels impairing blood
flow to organs and limbs, resulting in episodes of
chronic acute pain or vaso-occlusive crisis, severe
bacterial infections and necrosis (WHO, 2011;
National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI)