Active clinical trials for "Sickle Cell Trait"

The heterozygous form of sickle cell disease is clinically asymptomatic. Nevertheless, it was observed that, the sickle cell trait is associated with serious medical complications especially during intense physical efforts. Moreover, the exposure to a hot environment (tropical climate) is suspected to be a determining factor in the occurrence of these medical complications. However, the relationship between sickle cell trait and death during effort is not well established. Furthermore, the cascade of events that usually cause sickle cell crisis such as red blood cells sickling and rhabdomyolysis and which affect microcirculation are not known. Our main objective in this study is to verify whether young healthy active men with sickle cell trait have reactive hyperemia to their hemoglobinemic condition during exercise; to identify the contribution of hot environment on these possible disturbances; and to determine underlying mechanisms. In addition, disturbances in the regulation of glucose metabolism in healthy subjects under hot environment have been reported, marked by a significant increase in postprandial blood glucose. Therefore, this project is also intended to assess the contribution of the disturbance of glycoregulation during exercise under hot environment in active sickle cell trait carriers. The imbalance of pro and anti oxidant agents, the adhesion and inflammation markers will also be evaluated. Results of this study will allow a better understanding of physio-pathological mechanisms leading to vascular accidents during exercise under tropical climate in young healthy sickle cell trait carriers; and to identify physical activity programs and nutritional interventions adapted to patients with sickle cell disease under hot environment.

Bearers of the sickle cell allele (S) are currently eligible for blood donations in Belgium. As blood donors are not tested for this allele, their heterozygous status is unknown. However, guidelines recommend to transfuse sickle cell patients with blood that is negative for the 'S' hemoglobin. To the investigator's knowledge, no study has been conducted to evaluate the impact of transfusion with blood originating from heterozygous donors on the transfusion performance and the improvement of clinical status of the sickle cell disease patients.

This is a study for parents of young children with Sickle Cell Trait (SCT) identified by newborn screening who are referred and present for in person SCT education at the Institution. The study will determine the feasibility of implementing a SCT education program (SCTaware) that is appropriate for all parents, including those with low base knowledge and low health literacy and then test if results in high and sustained SCT knowledge.

To more clearly ascertain the relationship between ocular manifestations of sickle cell disease and diabetes, specifically; whether the presence of sickle cell trait exacerbates the disease progression of diabetic retinopathy.

This study will look at the five different types of sickle cell and their relation to self-reported ill health to determine whether or not one or two of the sickle cell haplotypes are correlated with worse health outcomes. Participants can do complete the study in under half an hour in the privacy of their own home.