What are the effects of sickle cell anemia?

Reduced O2 capacity: Sickle cells do not carry oxygen the way they are supposed to. This results in less oxygen carryign capacity, and the cells will deform. As they deform, they get stuck in the capillaries -- which causes pain for the area affected. There are some forms of cancer that are related to sickle cell anemia, but they are rare.

Many.: Basically, sickle cell disease causes disturbance of the blood vessels, typically smaller vessels. Over time, this can cause many problems. Painful episodes, eye problems, lung problems (similar to pneumonia), strokes, decreased spleen function (which can cause severe infections), kidney problems, and o ther problems. Sickle cell disease is not the same in all people. Some have milder symptoms.