[Sickle Cell Disease International Organization (SCDIO)].

A century after the first scientific description of sickle cell disease that had been known to African peoples under various names for more than three centuries, it is now time for this blood disorder and its associated sanitary and social disparities to come out of the shadows. Although sickle cell disease is the most widespread genetic disease in the world, public awareness remains low despite the considerable effort that has been made over the last decade. In order to improve understanding and management, the Sickle Cell Disease International Organization (SCDIO) has defined the following ambitious objectives: to implement effective action plans that must be based on the ability to sensitize minds about this disease; expand active support from public and private personalities and organizations; convince potential partners in all countries involved of the need for their active support of this important cause; raise funds that are indispensable to finance planned operations; provide effective organization to carry out priority initiatives aimed at lowering child mortality due to sickle cell disease in the world. To these ends, the SCDIO will continue in its advocacy role that will not stop until the resolutions are adopted and applied in all affected countries. The SCDIO will continue to prioritize the development of south/south partnerships. In view of the history of sickle cell disease, the major challenges for the next century will consist of prioritizing action to improve the quality of life of patients wherever they are and of developing research. To meet these challenges, we will need the involvement and support of the entire international community. We must all stand "United against sickle cell disease".