Which type of anemia is inherited when both parents carry the genetic trait?

Sickle cell disease is characterized as a hereditary condition that occurs when an individual inherits the sickle cell trait from both parents. This genetic disorder leads to the production of abnormal hemoglobin, known as hemoglobin S, which causes red blood cells to become rigid and take on a sickle or crescent shape. In contrast, individuals who inherit the sickle cell trait from just one parent usually do not exhibit symptoms and can be considered carriers.

This distinguishes sickle cell disease from other types of anemia listed in the question. Iron deficiency anemia, for example, is typically caused by insufficient iron intake or absorption and is not genetically inherited. Aplastic anemia involves the bone marrow's failure to produce sufficient blood cells and can result from various acquired factors rather than being an inherited trait. Therefore, when both parents carry the genetic trait, the resulting offspring is likely to develop sickle cell disease due to the combination of genes inherited from each parent.