Which of the listed treatments is considered a cure for sickle cell disease?

Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder characterized by the presence of abnormal hemoglobin, which can lead to various complications, including pain episodes and increased susceptibility to infections. Among the treatment options provided, stem cell transplant has the potential to cure sickle cell disease.

Stem cell transplant involves replacing the patient's diseased bone marrow with healthy bone marrow from a compatible donor, typically a sibling or other family member. This procedure allows the patient to produce normal red blood cells, effectively eliminating the underlying cause of sickle cell disease—the production of abnormal hemoglobin. While this treatment is not suitable for all patients due to donor availability and other medical considerations, it is currently the only known cure.

In contrast, blood transfusions can help manage symptoms and reduce complications by increasing the number of normal red blood cells, but they do not cure the disease. Hydroxyurea can help reduce the frequency of pain crises and complications by promoting the production of fetal hemoglobin, but it does not eliminate the disease. Folic acid supplementation can support red blood cell production but also does not address the root cause of sickle cell disease. Thus, while these treatments have their respective roles in the management of sickle cell disease, they do not offer a cure.