Question

Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given :
Which of the following statements is the most appropriate for sickle cell anaemia?

• A. It cannot be treated with iron supplements
• B. It is a molecular disease
• C. It confers resistance to acquiring malaria
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

All of the above

Sickle cell anaemia is an autosomal hereditary disorder in which the erythrocytes become sickle shaped under oxygen deficiency as during strenuous exercise and at high altitudes. The disorder or disease is caused by the formation of an abnormal haemoglobin called haemoglobin-S.Sickle cell trait protects against malaria. Several studies have suggested that, sickle haemoglobin might get in the way of Plasmodium parasite infecting RBCS, reducing the number of parasites that actually infect the host cell and thus confer some protection against the disease.

So, the correct answer is 'All of the above'.