Novartis-sponsored Web site features actor, free downloads

Novartis-sponsored Web site features actor, free downloads

Novartis is sponsoring a Web site and educational program about sickle cell disease featuring African American actor Larenz Tate. The site, www.AskLarenzAboutIron.com, is designed to raise awareness about iron overload, a possible side effect from frequent blood transfusions for sickle cell disease. The disease affects about one in 500 African Americans, and iron overload is an under-recognized complication of transfusions. In addition to tools and information about iron overload, AskLarenzAboutIron.com also includes "fun" features, such as downloadable computer wallpaper and an autographed picture of Tate. The site links to AskAboutIron.com, another Novartis-sponsored site, where users can sign up for free information from the company. Novartis makes the iron overload treatment Exjade.