Can sickle cell anemia be fatal?

Yes: Individuals with sickle cell anemia are at high risk to develop invasive bacterial infections, e.g., meningitis and bacteremia, especially by pneumococcus. Penicillin prophylaxis, immunization, and prompt medical attention for febrile illness have greatly reduced fatality from serious infection.

Yes: In addition to infection, having sickle cell disease increases your risk of having a stroke, which sometimes can be fatal. Patients with sickle cell disease can also develop acute chest syndrome, a very serious condition requiring ICU care. Regular visits to a doctor who specializes in caring for patients with sickle cell can help reduce the likelihood of having these complications.