Final answer:
Sickle cell anemia is characterized by the shape of the red blood cells becoming sickle-shaped or crescent-shaped.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sickle cell anemia is characterized by the shape of the red blood cells becoming sickle-shaped or crescent-shaped.
This happens due to a genetic disorder that causes production of an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S. The sickle-shaped cells can get stuck in narrow blood vessels, blocking blood flow and causing various health problems. Sickle cell anemia is particularly found in individuals of African descent.