ABSTRACT:
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) represents a profound global health challenge, functioning as a group of inherited, life-threatening erythrocyte disorders characterized by the presence of a mutant hemoglobin variant, Hemoglobin S (HbS). This comprehensive review explores the historical evolution of SCD understanding, its intricate molecular etiology, and the complex pathophysiology of hemoglobin polymerization that leads to vaso-occlusion, hemolytic anemia, and progressive end-organ damage. Furthermore, this paper provides an extensive analysis of contemporary therapeutic modalities, ranging from traditional phytomedicine to advanced pharmacological agents and curative CRISPR-based gene therapies. Finally, this article presents the findings of a hospital-based observational study conducted in Akkalkuwa, Maharashtra. Utilizing Capillary Zone Electrophoresis on a cohort of 50 patients, the study identified a critically high prevalence of the sickle cell trait (60%) compared to the homozygous disease state (14%). These localized epidemiological findings emphasize the urgent necessity for expanded genetic counseling, robust antenatal screening protocols, and targeted public health interventions in high-risk demographic zones.