It will not turn into a disease. Hemoglobin C trait should cause no health problems and requires no special medical care. Counseling regarding the trait is important because the hemoglobin gene can be passed on to a carrier's child. The most important aspect of identifying people with Hemoglobin C trait is informing them of their risk of having a child with a serious disease. Most people with hemoglobin C disease lead fairly healthy lives and live to a normal age.
Genetic counseling can help the family better understand hemoglobin C disease.
Hemoglobin SC disease is a form of sickle cell disease. The person with hemoglobin SC disease has red cells which sickle. Any child with hemoglobin SC disease needs close medical attention from the local doctor. The child should also be followed by a Comprehensive Care Program which offers specialized services for children with sickle cell disease. The caretaker should receive teaching about the disease and understand the special needs of the child.