Shorter University Athletics Sickle Cell Trait Testing

Shorter University Athletics Sickle Cell Trait Testing Procedures WHY? The NCAA mandates that all NCAA student-athletes have knowledge of their sickle cell trait status before the student-athlete participates in any intercollegiate athletics event, including strength and conditioning sessions, practices, competitions, etc. FACTS ABOUT SICKLE CELL TRAIT Sickle cell trait is not a disease. Although usually benign, it can be a life-threatening condition during intense, sustained exercise. Sickle cell trait can be found in athletes of all races, sex, and ancestry. Those at the highest risk for inheritance of the Sickle cell trait are those of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Indian, Caribbean, and South American decent. Sickle cell trait occurs in about 8 percent of the U.S. African-American population and between one in 2,000 to one in 10,000 in the Caucasian population. Having the Sickle cell trait does not automatically disqualify an athlete from competition as proper precautions can be taken. HOW TO TEST You must follow the procedure to complete your testing: 1.

Visit the following “Medivo” web address: https://sicklecelltesting.medivo.com/order/am Schedule the test at a Quest Diagnostic Center near you.

2. Medivo will post the results to their website for the student-athlete to print and provide to the Athletic Trainers. 3. Return test confirmation or the Sickle Cell Trait Testing Waiver to Shorter University Sports Medicine at the time of sports physicals. COST

Initial Screening: $32.50 Confirmation Reflex Testing: $30.00

NOTE If you have been tested for the Sickle Cell Trait, please provide test confirmation to Shorter University Sports Medicine. QUESTIONS Eric Johnson Head Athletic Trainer [email protected] 706-233-7490