Sickle Cell Trait

"Just what exactly is a sickle cell trait? People who inherit one sickle cell gene and one normal gene have sickle cell trait. That's compared to people who inherit one sickle cell gene from each parent, who may get sickle cell anemia, the most severe form of sickle cell disease.

People with the trait usually do not have the symptoms of sickle cell disease, but they might experience complications of the disease, such as pain crises, which occur when the sickled cell becomes stuck in the blood vessel, causing painful swelling. In rare cases, people with the trait can face harm when they're dehydrated, in an atmosphere with increased pressure - like when scuba diving - or when they are in areas with high altitude and low oxygen.

Athletes with sickle cell trait are more likely to experience heat stroke and muscle breakdown when exercising in very high or low temperatures, according to the CDC. To prevent illness while playing competitive sports, the CDC recommends people with sickle cell trait set their own pace and slowly build workout intensity, rest often between activities, and drink plenty of water."

About 8 percent of the African-American population in the U.S. carries the trait, but it is rare (around 1 in 2,000 to 1 in 10,000) in Caucasians. It is present in athletes at all levels, from high school through the professional ranks.

Click here for NCAA Sickle Cell Trait Fact Sheet

IMPORTANT! Sickle Cell Trait is one of several dozen tests performed on every infant born in the United States.

"Newborn screening is the practice of testing all babies in their first days of life for certain disorders and conditions that can hinder their normal development. This testing is required in every state and is typically performed before the baby leaves the hospital. The conditions included in newborn screening can cause serious health problems starting in infancy or childhood. Early detection and treatment can help prevent intellectual and physical disabilities and life-threatening illnesses." (Source)

Anyone can request their child's birth records (newborn screening test results).

Click here for the National Newborn Screening Resource Center. 

Direct link to each state's Newborn Screening Program.

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Schedule a free 30 minute safety and risk assessment with Dr. Steve Horwitz, CEO and Founder of TeamSafe​®Sports and prepare today!

Click here: calendly.com/drstevenhorwitz

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