NCT00081523 · National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Natural History of Sickle Cell Disease
What this study is about
This study is not a treatment protocol and no experimental treatments are involved. Study participants may be seen as needed for clinical, translational and basic research studies, or as medically indicated. Subjects will receive their general medical care outside the NIH and will be seen at our clinic or at CNHS with varying frequency. Subjects may be seen for multiple visits.
View original scientific description
This study is not a treatment protocol and no experimental treatments are involved. Study participants may be seen as needed for clinical, translational and basic research studies, or as medically indicated. Subjects will receive their general medical care outside the NIH and will be seen at our clinic or at CNHS with varying frequency. Subjects may be seen for multiple visits. Subjects may be asked to return for additional testing as needed. Clinical care for patients with sickle cell disease will be provided as appropriate through the Sickle Cell Clinic and the inpatient clinical center....
Primary outcome measures
To gather, through clinical experience, information regarding the natural history, co-morbid conditions and outcomes, and complications relating to sickle cell disease and other hemolytic disorders in minority/ethnic patients
Time frame: ongoing
Better characterization of the natural history of sickle cell disease
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Individuals with known or suspected sickle cell disease
- 2 years of age and older
- Willing to provide informed consent or appropriate informed consent from parent or legal guardian
- Patients seen at sickle outpatient clinics at any one of the participating centers (CNHS or NIH).
Exclusion criteria
- Patient and/or guardian unable and unwilling to give informed consent or assent.
- Patients less than 2 years of age. Individuals with known or suspected sickle cell disease will meet the inclusion criteria to enroll in this protocol and can undergo study activities. However, if the individual is found not to have sickle cell disease after enrollment, they will be removed from the protocol, and their research samples will be discarded but they will be counted toward the study accrual. The study team will notify the individual about their removal from the study and explain the reason for it. Any necessary regulatory reporting will also be completed.
Where
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
- Bethesda, Maryland
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations