COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) - The University of Missouri health system is opening a clinic for adults with sickle cell disease.
The clinic will be located in Columbia's Ellis Fischel Cancer Center. Beginning Oct. 25, it will provide afternoon hours on the second and fourth Thursday of each month.
Sickle cell is an inherited blood disorder that causes a shortage of red blood cells. The hereditary condition is found in an estimated 8 percent to 10 percent of African-Americans. Sickle-shaped blood cells carry less oxygen and can clog blood vessels that flow to the heart and other muscles.
Clinic organizers say most treatment efforts have focused on pediatric sickle cell patients, including newborn screenings and infection control.