Ochsner Health has partnered with the Louisiana Sickle Cell Commission to host a Sickle Cell Symposium. This symposium is dedicated to advancing the care and understanding of sickle cell disease in Louisiana. The event will take place Sept. 19 from 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Recreation Center, 309 Cora Street in Lafayette, and is free and open to the public.
According to the Louisiana Department of Health, individuals living with sickle cell disease (SCD) experience worse health outcomes and have access to fewer resources compared to individuals living without SCD. Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that causes misshapen red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. It can cause severe pain and other serious health complications, including strokes, breathing problems, infections, kidney disease, and more.
In the United States, nine out of 10 people who have sickle cell disease are of African ancestry or identify as Black. Approximately 80 infants are born each year in Louisiana with SCD.
The Sickle Cell Symposium is a unique opportunity for medical professionals, individuals living with sickle cell disease, caregivers, and advocates to connect, learn, and inspire change. The event focuses on empowering those affected by sickle cell disease and advancing the mission to eliminate health disparities and advance compassionate care in Louisiana.
“As the leading healthcare organization in Acadiana, Ochsner is proud to partner with the Louisiana Sickle Cell Commission to host the first Sickle Cell Symposium in Lafayette,” said Karen Wyble, AVP Community & Public Affairs, Ochsner Lafayette General. "This symposium is critical to those suffering from this rare, debilitating, and life-threatening blood disorder. We hope to educate our physicians, nurses, other healthcare providers, and the community on sickle cell disease and how to care for our families.”
The symposium agenda includes sessions presented by leading experts in the field on pain management, gene therapy, palliative care, neonatal screening, mental health, and more. Additionally, there will be in-person engagement opportunities with access to:
-Expert Panels
-Patient Voices
-Networking Opportunities
-CME & CNE Credits
“The Sickle Cell Symposium is more than just an event—it's a powerful platform bringing together patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to share knowledge, advocate for change, and advance better healthcare for sickle cell patients. We are excited to bring it to Lafayette, where many individuals are living with sickle cell disease and may not have adequate resources," said Erin Fulbright, Louisiana Sickle Cell Commission chair. “Through the symposium, we will unite as a state to work towards a future of health equity for all."
For more information on the Sickle Cell Symposium, visit the event website Sickle Cell symposium: State of the Union.