Final answer:
Hydroxyurea helps patients with SCD by increasing the production of fetal hemoglobin, which prevents the sickling of red blood cells and reduces the frequency and severity of symptoms and complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hydroxyurea is a medication that is used to help patients with SCD, which stands for sickle cell disease. SCD is a genetic disorder that affects the shape of red blood cells, causing them to become sickle-shaped and sticky. This can lead to various complications, including pain, organ damage, and an increased risk of infection.
Hydroxyurea works by increasing the production of a molecule called fetal hemoglobin, which helps prevent the sickling of red blood cells. By reducing the number of sickle-shaped cells in the body, hydroxyurea can reduce the frequency and severity of SCD symptoms and complications.
It's important to note that hydroxyurea is not a cure for SCD, but it can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with the condition.