SCDhealthhub

Genotype compatibility is an important topic that should be discussed as a matter of necessity, between partners who intend to get married and/or bear children. This helps prevent future problems for partners and their child(ren).

WHAT IS GENOTYPE?

Genotype is simply the genetic makeup of an individual organism which determines a specific characteristic.

Blood genotype indicates the type of protein (Haemoglobin) found in your red blood cells. There are six blood genotypes which are AA, AS, AC, SS, SC and CC (very rare).

WHO IS GENETICALLY COMPATIBLE?

Two people are genetically compatible when there is no possibility of birthing a sickle cell diseased child.

To know if genotypes are compatible, a physical pairing with the letters can be done as illustrated below:

Compatible genotypes:

• AA + AA

• AA + SS

• AA + AS

• AA + SC

• AA + AC

• AA + CC

Incompatible genotypes:

• AS + AC

• AS + SC

• AS + AS

• AS + CC

• AC + SS

• AC + AC

• AC + SC

• AC + CC

• SS + SS

• CC + CC

• SC + SC

SS, SC and CC genotypes are called sickle cell disease genotypes.

Genotype can only be changed by undergoing a bone marrow transplant (BMT). Research has shown that it is the only promising permanent cure to SS, SC, and CC; however, it is new, very expensive and cannot be done in any part of Africa. It also carries some risks like stem cell (graft) damage, infections, infertility, death among others.

To prevent crisis and stay healthy, SCD patients should do the following:

1. Avoid taking baths with cold water.

2. Dress in warm clothes in cold environments.

3. Drink plenty of water.

4. Limit Alcohol.

5. Avoid smoking.

6. Manage stress.

7. Stay amidst healthy people.

8. Exercise.

9. Use their medication regularly.

It is better safe than sorry. Preventing innocent children from suffering pain, by knowing your genotype, is a great show of love. If you don’t know yours, you can go to an accredited hospital and get the test done. Cheers to a generation that produces SCD free children!