Is having the sickle cell trait just as bad as being diagnosed with sickle cell itself?

NOT AS BAD: Precludes you from certain activities.

Sickle cell trait: Most people with sickle cell trait have no symptoms and have a life expectancy similar to those without sickle cell trait. It is very different than having sickle cell disease. However, a person with sickle cell trait is at increased risk of having a child with sickle cell disease if their partner has sickle cell disease (50% chance of child to have sickle cell disease). Talk with your doctor.