Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin gene. It results in abnormal hemoglobin and sickle-shaped red blood cells. The disease is characterized by chronic anemia and periodic pain crises. Treatment involves folic acid supplementation, preventing infections and dehydration, managing pain during crises, blood transfusions for severe crises, and hydroxyurea to increase fetal hemoglobin levels. New therapies under investigation include gene therapy to potentially cure the disease.