James Herrick

James Herrick was an American physician and scientist best known for his discovery of sickle cell anemia in 1910. This genetic blood disorder causes red blood cells to develop a crescent or sickle shape, which impairs their ability to carry oxygen and can lead to blockages in blood flow. Herrick's identification of this condition was significant because it was one of the first diseases linked to a specific mutation in blood cells, helping to advance understanding of genetic disorders. His work laid the foundation for modern hematology and improved diagnosis and awareness of sickle cell disease.