Which hereditary blood disorder features abnormal hemoglobin that does not carry adequate oxygen?

• A. Anemia
• B. Hemophilia
• C. Sickle Cell Anemia
• D. Renal Calculi

Answer: (C)

Abnormal hemoglobin that doesn’t carry oxygen well is a hallmark of sickle cell anemia. This inherited disorder comes from a mutation in the beta-globin gene that produces hemoglobin S. When oxygen levels drop, HbS tends to polymerize, causing red blood cells to become rigid and crescent-shaped. These misshapen cells don’t transport oxygen effectively and are broken down faster, leading to anemia. While anemia can have many causes, this condition specifically links an altered hemoglobin with impaired oxygen delivery. Other options describe different problems (bleeding/clotting disorders or kidney stones) and don’t involve abnormal hemoglobin causing reduced oxygen transport.