Episode 162: Sickle Cell Spotlight: Advancements in Treatment and Care

This week, Jonathan is joined by Sophie Lanzkron, Professor of Medicine in the Division of Hematology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. The pair explores sickle cell disease and advancements in its treatment, including hydroxyurea and blood transfusions, as well as advancements in haplotype transplant and gene therapy. They further discuss challenges in diagnosis and treatment, and how the condition affects quality of life.

Use the following timestamps to navigate the content in this episode:

(00:00)-Introduction

(02:33)-Inspiration to work in haematology and sickle cell disease

(05:00)-Sickle cell disease: what is it and how does it affect quality of life

(08:30)-Efficiency and use of hydroxyurea

(13:00)-Infusion clinic outcomes versus emergency department outcomes

(16:08)-Treating patients with sickle cell disease by blood transfusions

(17:40)-Global prevalence and burden of sickle cell disease

(20:20)-Challenges faced by patients during diagnosis and treatment

(23:53)-Novel sickle cell disease healthcare delivery model

(26:27)-Perfecting treatment for sickle cell disease

(29:15)-Research focus in the future

(31:22)-Lanzkron’s three wishes for the future