What is the goal HbS level for patients with Sickle Cell Disease?

For patients with Sickle Cell Disease, the goal for hemoglobin S (HbS) levels is to achieve less than 30%. Elevated levels of HbS can lead to increased risk of vaso-occlusive crises, pain episodes, and other complications associated with Sickle Cell Disease. By maintaining the HbS level under 30%, patients are less likely to experience these adverse events, as it encourages a higher proportion of normal hemoglobin (HbA) or fetal hemoglobin (HbF), which can inhibit sickling.

In clinical practice, strategies such as hydroxyurea treatment are often employed to help reduce the HbS level and promote the production of fetal hemoglobin, which does not sickle. Thus, achieving and maintaining this target level is critical for improving clinical outcomes and minimizing the complications associated with Sickle Cell Disease.