A mutation in the hemoglobin gene that results in Sickle Cell Anemia is generally considered harmful. Sickle Cell Anemia is an inherited blood disorder where red blood cells become rigid and shaped like crescent moons, hence obstructing blood flow and causing various health problems. Individuals with Sickle Cell Anemia experience chronic pain, fatigue, anemia, organ damage, and an increased risk of infections. However, it is worth noting that in areas with a high prevalence of malaria, individuals carrying the sickle cell trait (heterozygous for the mutation) have a survival advantage over those without the trait, as the mutation provides some resistance against malaria infection. Thus, in those specific regions, the mutation can be seen as having some beneficial effects in terms of survival against malaria.
