What is Sickle Cell Trait?
It’s a generally benign condition in which a person inherits from their parents one gene for the oxygen-carrying element in their red blood cells – hemoglobin – and one gene for sickle shaped hemoglobin. It is not the same as the more severe condition, sickle cell disease, in which both genes for sickle hemoglobin are inherited. Those with the trait experience normal healthy lives. Only in situations where the body is pushed to extreme conditions, as athletes do, can the trait sometimes cause red blood cells to sickle and block blood vessels, denying oxygen to muscles and organs. But in most cases, carriers of the trait live normal, healthy lives without incident. Please see the Sickle Cell Trait fact sheet for student-athletes or visit the NCAA.org Sickle Cell Trait page for more information
Why do I need to show proof of testing?
Starting August 1, 2013, all Division III schools must confirm the sickle cell trait status of incoming (new and transfer) student-athletes before participation in intercollegiate athletics. Starting August 1, 2014, all student-athletes must confirm their sickle cell trait status.
How can I show proof of testing?
Proof can be shown in one of three ways.
Documentation: The student-athlete may provide documented results of a sickle cell solubility test administered before participation.
Pending documentation: A student-athlete who has taken a sickle cell solubility test but whose results are not yet confirmed may participate provided the student-athlete engages in mandatory education, signs a waiver and receives appropriate precautions.
Opt-out: The student-athlete may sign a waiver declining confirmation of sickle cell trait status. Before signing a waiver, the student-athlete shall be provided education regarding the implications of exercising the waiver option. Before athletics participation, a student-athlete who signs a waiver under this provision shall engage in mandatory education regarding sickle cell trait status.
Where can I get the Sickle Cell Trait Testing and Waiver form?
The document is available for download on the Athlete Portal after you log in, or you can download the Sickle Cell Trait Testing Info and Waiver.
Why do I need to be tested?
Lawrence University recommends that all student‐athletes who are unable to confirm their sickle cell trait status undergo sickle cell trait testing prior to participation in any intercollegiate athletic activity. Knowledge of sickle cell trait status can be a gateway to education and simple precautions that may prevent collapse among athletes with sickle cell trait, allowing you to thrive in your sport.
What if I don't know my test results or know if I was tested?
Actually, tests for sickle cell trait are currently performed on all newborns in the U.S., but few are aware of a positive result because the condition is not considered life threatening in most of the population. You may obtain results from testing performed as a newborn by simply doing an internet search for newborn screening+ your birth state to find instructions and contact information or selecting your state on the Newborn Screening Website.
How can I get tested?
Sickle cell trait testing in the form of a blood test can be done by the student‐ athlete's primary care physician. The expense of the test is the responsibility of the student‐athlete.
What if I have been tested, but I do not have my results yet, can I still participate?
Yes, provided that the student-athlete engages in mandatory education, signs a waiver and receives appropriate precautions.
Will I still be able to participate if I test positive?
Student‐athletes who test positive for the trait will NOT be prohibited from participating in intercollegiate athletics.
What if I don't want to be tested?
Knowledge of sickle cell trait status can be a gateway to education and simple precautions that may prevent collapse among athletes with sickle cell trait, allowing you to thrive in your sport. However, it is ultimately your decision if you wish to know your status. If you choose not to provide results, you must simply sign the Sickle Cell Trait Testing Waiver.
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