The National Collegiate Athletic Association mandates screening for sickle cell trait among its Division I student-athletes. This involves a blood test, typically conducted during pre-participation physicals, to determine if an individual carries the genetic trait for sickle cell disease. A positive test result indicates that the athlete possesses one copy of the sickle cell gene, inherited from one parent, as opposed to having sickle cell disease, which requires inheriting two copies.
This screening is crucial for athlete safety. Individuals with the trait are generally asymptomatic but can experience complications under intense physical exertion, such as sickling crises, where red blood cells change shape and block blood flow. Knowing an athlete’s status allows for proactive measures to mitigate potential risks, including adjusted training regimens, hydration protocols, and awareness among coaching staff. The practice gained prominence following several incidents of exertional rhabdomyolysis and sudden death in athletes with the trait, leading to increased awareness and preventative strategies within collegiate athletics.
