Many people living with sickle cell disease understandably focus on pain crises, blood complications, and organ health. However, eye health is another important part of overall care that is often overlooked. Vision complications related to sickle cell disease can develop quietly, sometimes without noticeable symptoms, and if left undetected, may lead to permanent vision loss.

In this episode of Blood, Sweat & Cells: Real Talk About Sickle Cell Disease, host Valerie Bey speaks with Dr. Adrienne W. Scott, retina specialist and Fred M. Leader Family Retina Professor of Ophthalmology at the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins.

Dr. Scott explains how sickle cell disease can affect the retina, why eye damage often develops without symptoms, and why routine dilated retinal exams are critical for early detection and prevention of vision loss.

Listeners will learn:

• What sickle cell retinopathy is and how it develops
• Why vision problems may occur without warning signs
• What symptoms should never be ignored
• How screening and early treatment can prevent serious complications
• Why eye care should be part of lifelong sickle cell management

If you or someone you love lives with sickle cell disease, this episode offers essential guidance on protecting vision and maintaining long-term eye health.

Where to Go:

Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/wilmer/

Retina Group of Washington has locations across the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

Retina Specialist Ophthalmologists | RGW | Eye Surgeons & Doctors MD VA DC

https://www.rgw.com

Patient Resource: Sickle Cell & Eye Health Download handout: https://tinyurl.com/4x943tp7