Sickle cell disease affects about 150,000 Americans and more than 25 million people worldwide.

The NHLBI-led Initiative has accelerated the development of genetic therapies and other resources for use in ongoing clinical research trials.

The Initiative builds on NHLBI’s broader sickle cell disease research investment that aims to improve the lives of patients.

Patients are the most important part of NHLBI research; clinical trial participation will be critical to the Initiative’s success.

The Initiative is building partnerships, as well as supporting educational and community engagement activities.