Study on Sickle Cell Pain: This study wants to see if a special training program can help teens with sickle cell disease (SCD) feel better. SCD is when red blood cells are shaped like a sickle and can cause pain. The program, called I-STRONG for SCD, teaches skills to help both the mind and body. It will be tested to see if it reduces pain and helps teens function better in their daily lives.
I-STRONG for SCD combines mind-body training, cognitive-behavioral therapy (a type of therapy that helps change thinking patterns), and movement exercises. Teens aged 12-18 and their caregivers can join. The study lasts 36 months, but participants are involved for 9 months. They will join 16 group sessions online for 8 weeks, twice a week. Some will start earlier, while others will follow usual care and start later.
Who Can Join: Teens with a sickle cell disease diagnosis and their caregivers can join. Teens must speak English and have stable treatments. They should also have pain levels that fit certain criteria. Teens with other medical conditions or who are getting similar treatments elsewhere might not be able to join this study.
- Study lasts 9 months for participants.
- 16 online group sessions over 8 weeks.
- Participants learn skills for better pain management.