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Print ArticleSickle Cell Disease
Prevention
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder and isn't preventable. However, a couple may meet with a genetic counselor before becoming pregnant to learn more about their chances of having a child with sickle cell disease. People whose ancestors were from Africa, India, the Middle East, the Mediterranean (Turkey, Italy, Greece), and some Latin American countries are more likely to inherit the gene that can cause sickle cell disease. In the United States, the disease mainly affects African Americans (1 in 650) and Latin Americans (1 in 1,000 to 1,400).8
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To avoid injury before you hit the gym, personal trainer, Aaron Small, PhD offers these hamstring and calf stretches.
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