CME | Twisted Truths: What You Didn't Learn About Sickle Cell

In this episode of CME On the Go, the hosts discuss sickle cell disease (SCD) and the role of family medicine in recognizing, screening, and preventing complications. They review SCD as an autosomal recessive hemoglobin disorder distinct from sickle cell trait and highlight major complications such as anemia, infection risk, pain crises, and acute chest syndrome. The episode emphasizes global prevalence, newborn screening (and potential gaps), and risk beyond African ancestry. It also covers hemoglobin electrophoresis patterns, preventive care including penicillin prophylaxis and vaccines, recommended screenings, preconception and genetic counseling, and the use, dosing, and monitoring of hydroxyurea.

Learning Objectives

1. Differentiate between sickle cell trait and disease and interpret screening results across the lifespan to guide patient and family education.

1. Apply evidence-based screening recommendations and routine treatment strategies for sickle cell disease across the lifespan to support longitudinal care in primary care.

The AAFP has reviewed Twisted Truths: What You Didn't Learn About Sickle Cell and deemed it acceptable for up to 0.50 Enduring Materials, Self-Study AAFP Prescribed credits. Term of Approval is from 04/06/2026 to 6/4/2027. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

The AAFP is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The American Academy of Family Physicians designates this Enduring Materials for a maximum of 0.50 AMA PRA Category 1 credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

CME activities approved for AAFP credit are recognized by the AOA as equivalent to AOA Category 2 credit.

After listening to the podcast episode, claim 0.5 AAFP credit by following the provided link.

https://www.aafp.org/assessment/take/19787/e

References and Resources

• Management of Sickle Cell Disease: Recommendations from the 2014 Expert Panel Report. BARBARA P. YAWN, MD, MSc, MSPH, AND JOYLENE JOHN-SOWAH, MD, MPH. Am Fam Physician. 2015;92(12):1069-1076A

• Elendu C, Amaechi DC, Alakwe-Ojimba CE, et al. Understanding Sickle cell disease: Causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Medicine (Baltimore). 2023;102(38):e35237. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000035237

• https://www.cdc.gov/sickle-cell/data/index.html

• Obeagu EI, Obeagu GU. Immunization strategies for individuals with sickle cell anemia: A narrative review. Medicine (Baltimore). 2024 Sep 20;103(38):e39756. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000039756. PMID: 39312357; PMCID: PMC11419550.

• https://www.cdc.gov/contraception/media/pdfs/2024/07/us-mec-summary-chart-color-508.pdf

Disclosure: It is the policy of the AAFP that all individuals in a position to control content disclose any relationships with commercial interests upon nomination/invitation of participation. Disclosure documents are reviewed for potential conflicts of interest and, if identified, conflicts are resolved prior to confirmation of participation. Only those participants who had no conflict of interest or who agreed to an identified resolution process prior to their participation were involved in this CME activity.  All individuals in a position to control content for this session have indicated they have no relevant financial relationships to disclose. 

Disclaimer: Copyright 2026. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.