Can A White Person Have Sickle Cell? Exploring Genetic Variability

“Do white people have sickle cell?” is a question often raised about sickle cell trait, an inherited blood disorder. While it predominantly affects 8 to 10 percent of African Americans, it’s important to note that sickle cell trait can also be found in other racial and ethnic groups. This condition is not exclusive to African Americans; it can impact individuals of Hispanic, South Asian, and Middle Eastern descent, as well as Caucasians, particularly those with roots in southern Europe. In total, sickle cell trait affects a significant portion of the American population, with an estimated 1 million to 3 million individuals experiencing its effects. This broader perspective highlights the diversity of those who may carry the sickle cell trait and the importance of understanding its prevalence across various demographics.

How common is sickle cell trait among different racial groups in the United States? Sickle cell trait prevalence varies significantly across ethnic backgrounds. For every 1,000 black newborns in the U.S., an estimated 73.1 cases have sickle cell trait, while among Hispanic newborns, the incidence is 6.9 cases per 1,000. Among white newborns, the prevalence is lower at 3.0 cases per 1,000, and among Asian or Pacific Islander newborns, it’s even rarer, with an estimated 2.2 cases per 1,000. These statistics, as of February 2, 2022, illustrate the differing frequencies of sickle cell trait within various racial groups in the United States.