In continuation of its tradition to raise public awareness of health and social issues, the U.S. Postal Service will issue a new sickle cell disease commemorative stamp for release next year.

Sickle cell disease is a group of inhibited disorders that affect the red blood cells. Victims are usually diagnosed at birth. Research indicates that sickle cell disease has been known to the people of Africa for hundreds of years. The first description of the disease was by Chicago physician James B. Herrick who noted that a patient from the West Indies had an anemia characterized by unusual red cells that were “sickle shaped.”

It is estimated that more than 70,000 Americans have sickle cell disease and more than 2 million have sickle cell “traits” — meaning that they carry one part of the disease.

There is no universal cure for the disease, though many people given proper treatment can live fairly normal lives from childhood to their 40s and even beyond. Research continues to look for a cure and for new and more effective treatments.

More information about the sickle cell disease stamp will be reported here when it becomes available. Current U.S. stamps, as well as a free comprehensive catalog, can be obtained by calling (800) STAMP-24.