Final answer:
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells and is caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin gene. The abnormal hemoglobin causes the red blood cells to assume a sickle shape, leading to blockages in blood vessels and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells. It is caused by a mutation in the gene responsible for producing hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in red blood cells. This mutation results in the production of abnormal hemoglobin, called hemoglobin S.
At low oxygen concentrations, such as in narrow blood vessels, the abnormal hemoglobin causes the red blood cells to assume a sickle or crescent shape. This can lead to blockages in blood vessels, reduced oxygen delivery to tissues, and a variety of serious health problems.