TY - JOUR T1 - Sickle cell trait: what's a sports medicine clinician to think? JF - British Journal of Sports Medicine JO - Br J Sports Med SP - 667 LP - 668 DO - 10.1136/bjsports-2012-091209 VL - 47 IS - 11 AU - Francis G O'Connor AU - Patricia Deuster AU - Alexis Thompson Y1 - 2013/07/01 UR - http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/47/11/667.abstract N2 - In April of 2010, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), supported by other professional organisations (College of American Pathologists 2007; National Athletic Trainers' Association 2007) approved mandatory testing for the presence of sickle cell carrier status in student athletes participating in Division I sports. This action was in part a response to the legal case against the NCAA and Rice University brought forward by the family of Dale Lloyd II. Dale Lloyd's death was attributed to exertional rhabdomyolysis associated with sickle cell trait; this association has been described in the medical literature in athletes, as well as in military populations.1 Mandatory testing, although implemented to prevent future deaths, has generated controversy. Whereas some believe that screening or a priori knowledge of sickle cell trait (SCT) status may potentially save lives, others argue that screening may do more harm than good. In January 2012, the American Society of Haematology (ASH), which represents over 16 000 physicians and researchers, issued a statement opposing SCT testing and/or disclosure of status as a prerequisite for athletic participation.2 They stated that screening cannot be justified based on current scientific evidence. In contrast, ASH supports implementation of universal guidelines to reduce exertion-related injuries and deaths. Given the strong and contrasting opinions, physicians and other providers are left wondering how to properly advise athletes, in particular those who may not fall under recommendations of the NCAA. Their policy has been supported by several other medical organisations, including the American Society of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, American Public Health Association, Sickle Cell Disease Association of … ER -