Why is sickle cell anemia caused by the HBB gene change?

Everyone has two copies of the HBB gene, which codes for a building block of hemoglobin known as beta-globin. Individuals with sickle cell anemia have a change known as hemoglobin S (Hb S) in both of their copies of this gene. When both copies of the beta-globin gene have the Hb S change, the hemoglobin made by that individual is abnormal. This abnormal hemoglobin causes the red blood cells to be abnormally shaped, leading to the various symptoms of sickle cell anemia.

Other Questions About Sickle-cell anemia

• Why is sickle cell anemia caused by the HBB gene change?
• Who else in my family should I test for sickle cell anemia?
• When am I going to die of sickle cell anemia?
• What will I die from with sickle cell anemia?
• What specialist doctors should I see with sickle cell anemia?