1
|
Pecker LH, Oteng-Ntim E, Nero A, Lanzkron S, Christianson MS, Woolford T, Meacham LR, Mishkin AD. Expecting more: the case for incorporating fertility services into comprehensive sickle cell disease care. Lancet Haematol 2023; 10:e225-e234. [PMID: 36708736 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3026(22)00353-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are not yet systematically available to people with sickle cell disease or their parents. Fertility care for these groups requires addressing sickle cell disease-associated infertility risks, fertility preservation options, pregnancy possibilities and outcomes, and, when needed, infertility treatment. People with a chance of having a child with sickle cell disease can use in-vitro fertilisation with preimplantation genetic testing to conceive a child unaffected by sickle cell disease. Also, parents of children with sickle cell disease can use this technology to identify embryos to become potential future matched sibling donors for stem cell transplant. In the USA, disparities in fertility care for the sickle cell disease community are especially stark. Universal screening of newborn babies' identifies sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait, guidelines direct preconception genetic carrier screening, and standard-of-care fertility preserving options exist. However, potentially transformative treatments and cures for patients with sickle cell disease are not used due to iatrogenic infertility concerns. In diversely resourced care settings, obstacles to providing fertility care to people affected by sickle cell disease persist. In this Viewpoint, we contend that fertility care should be incorporated into the comprehensive care model for sickle cell disease, supporting alignment of treatment goals with reproductive life plans and delivering on the promise of individualised high-quality care for people with sickle cell disease and their families. We consider the obligation to provide fertility care in light of medical evidence, with acknowledgment of formidable obstacles to optimising care, and powerful historical and ethical considerations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lydia H Pecker
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Eugene Oteng-Ntim
- Women's Health Academic Centre, King's College London, London, UK; Women's Services, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alecia Nero
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Sophie Lanzkron
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mindy S Christianson
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Teonna Woolford
- Sickle Cell Reproductive Health Education Directive, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lillian R Meacham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center Children's Healthcare of Atlanta; Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Pediatrics Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Adrienne D Mishkin
- Blood and Marrow Transplantation and Cell Therapy Program, Division of Hematology & Oncology and Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Alsalman M, Alhamoud H, Alabdullah Z, Alsleem R, Almarzooq Z, Alsalem F, Alsulaiman A, Albeladi A, Alsalman Z. Sickle Cell Disease Knowledge and Reproductive Decisions: A Saudi Cross-Sectional Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2023; 17:761-767. [PMID: 36974077 PMCID: PMC10039637 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s404811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an autosomal recessive disorder. Decisions following premarital screening results might be influenced by several factors. Thus, this study aims to assess the knowledge and beliefs toward SCD and reproductive decisions. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. Data was collected using a web-based questionnaire. Participants were divided into two groups based on their knowledge scores. RESULTS A total of 390 participants were recruited with a mean age of 28.6 years. The majority (90.5%) of participants had general knowledge about the disease mode of inheritance however, 66.9% had poor knowledge about the disease overall. Regarding knowledge level, there was no statistically significant difference between the non-healthy group (diseased and carrier) and healthy participants (P=0.304). Moreover, the participants' decisions about choosing future partners were more likely to be affected among those with prior knowledge about the disease (p=0.008). However, 152 (91.6%) male participants with prior knowledge would change their decision about selecting a future partner compared to 225 (92.4%) female participants. Regarding reproduction, only 38.5% of participants were aware of in vitro fertilization (IVF) as an assistive reproductive technology. Furthermore, female participants believed that IVF is a way to have healthy babies and would consider it despite the cost more than male participants (p=0.0001, p=0.007 respectively). CONCLUSION SCD is an inherited disease with economic, physical, and psychological burdens. However, curative options are costly, and hence, prevention is key. Therefore, healthcare decision-makers should consider implementing policies to minimize the financial burden that may still affect society despite the availability of free medical care. This study warrants extensive community-based education programs that may contribute toward cost savings. It also highlights the importance of premarital counselling for disease and carrier people including alternative reproduction options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mortadah Alsalman
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan Alhamoud
- Department of Medicine, King Fahad Hospital, Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zainab Alabdullah
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raghad Alsleem
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zainab Almarzooq
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatemah Alsalem
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Zaenb Alsalman
- Departments of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: Zaenb Alsalman, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Po Box 3311, Al Ahsa, 36346, Saudi Arabia, Tel +966545611633, Email
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Acceptable, hopeful, and useful: development and mixed-method evaluation of an educational tool about reproductive options for people with sickle cell disease or trait. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:183-193. [PMID: 34806131 PMCID: PMC8866599 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02358-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE People with sickle cell disease (SCD) or trait have many reproductive options, some of which decrease the chance of passing SCD to children, including in vitro fertilization with preimplantation genetic testing (IVF + PGT). Few are aware of these options, and educational materials are needed. This study aimed to develop an accessible, non-directive patient education material about reproductive options for those with SCD or trait via a process that incorporated stakeholders from the SCD community. METHODS Multidisciplinary stakeholders guided development and revision of a novel pamphlet. Researchers applied health literacy scales to measure pamphlet understandability. We interviewed nine patients with SCD and six multidisciplinary clinicians to evaluate the pamphlet. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded by a five-member team who developed a codebook and proposed themes that were revised by all research team members. Feedback was incorporated into a revised pamphlet. RESULTS A two-page pamphlet describing reproductive options for people with SCD including IVF + PGT was acceptable to key stakeholders, including people with SCD. Material about this complex topic met health literacy standards, including being written at a 5th grade level. Patients reported feeling hopeful after reviewing the pamphlet, and participants considered the pamphlet useful, clear, and appropriate for distribution in clinics and online. CONCLUSIONS Though awareness of reproductive options for those with SCD or trait is low, patients and providers find a novel pamphlet about this topic acceptable and useful. Educational materials about complex topics including IVF + PGT can be written at a level understandable to the average American.
Collapse
|
4
|
Oteng-Ntim E, Pavord S, Howard R, Robinson S, Oakley L, Mackillop L, Pancham S, Howard J. Management of sickle cell disease in pregnancy. A British Society for Haematology Guideline. Br J Haematol 2021; 194:980-995. [PMID: 34409598 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.17671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Oteng-Ntim
- Department of Women's Health, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- Department of Women's Health, King's College London, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Sue Pavord
- Department of Haematology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Richard Howard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals, Romford, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Susan Robinson
- Department of Women's Health, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Laura Oakley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lucy Mackillop
- Department of Haematology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Shivan Pancham
- Department of Haematology, Sandwell and West, Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Jo Howard
- Department of Haematology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- Department of Haematology, King's College London, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Parents of Children with Sickle Cell Disease Are Interested in Preimplantation Genetic Testing. J Pediatr 2020; 223:178-182.e2. [PMID: 32586619 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2020.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate awareness of and attitudes toward preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for sickle cell disease (SCD) among parents of children with SCD. STUDY DESIGN Parents of children with SCD were given an educational handbook on PGT before a routine SCD clinic visit. After their clinic visit, parents were asked to complete an anonymous survey. RESULTS Of 83 patents approached, 67 (81%) completed the survey. Only 16 of the 67 parents (24%) were previously aware of PGT for SCD. After our clinic-based education, 65 of the 67 parents (97%) indicated that it was important or very important for parents of children with SCD to know about PGT. Among parents interested in having more children, 29 of 32 (91%) would personally consider using PGT if covered by insurance. CONCLUSIONS Parents of children with SCD are generally not aware of PGT. When educated in clinic, parents viewed information on PGT as valuable. Pediatricians and other health care professionals should inform parents of children with SCD about this reproductive option.
Collapse
|
6
|
Vali S, Mukhtar S, Nandi A, Wilson K, Oakley L, El-Toukhy T, Oteng-Ntim E. Cumulative outcome of pre-implantation genetic diagnosis for sickle cell disease: a 5-year review. Br J Haematol 2020; 191:875-879. [PMID: 32621537 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.16930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
To review the cumulative outcome of pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) cycles performed for prevention of sickle cell disease (SCD). Couples referred for PGD for SCD between April 2012 and October 2017 were included. Ovarian stimulation was performed using a short gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol and follicle-stimulating hormone injections. The GnRH agonist was used to trigger oocyte maturation. Oocytes were fertilised using intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Trophectoderm biopsy was performed on day 5 or 6 followed by vitrification. Genetic testing was done using pre-implantation genetic haplotyping. A total of 60 couples started 70 fresh PGD cycles (mean 1·2 cycles/couple) and underwent a total of 74 frozen-embryo-transfer (FET) cycles (mean 1·3 FET/couple). The mean (SD) female age was 33 (4·4) years and the mean (SD) anti-müllerian hormone level was 22·9 (2·8) pmol/l. The cumulative live-birth rate was 54%/PGD cycle started and 63%/couple embarking on PGD. The rate of multiple births was 8%. The cumulative outcome of PGD treatment for prevention of SCD transmission is high and PGD treatment should be offered to all at-risk couples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saaliha Vali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sunbal Mukhtar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Anupa Nandi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Kieren Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Laura Oakley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tarek El-Toukhy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Eugene Oteng-Ntim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Early ML, Kumar P, Marcell AV, Lawson C, Christianson M, Pecker LH. Literacy assessment of preimplantation genetic patient education materials exceed national reading levels. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1913-1922. [PMID: 32472448 PMCID: PMC7468013 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01837-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In vitro fertilization with preimplantation genetic testing (IVF+PGT-M) reduces the risk of having a child affected by a heritable condition, yet only one-third of eligible patients are aware of this reproductive option. Access to education materials written at appropriate literacy levels could raise patients' awareness, but there is a mismatch between patient reading ability and the literacy demand of most materials. This study aimed to systematically identify written education materials on IVF+PGT-M and evaluate their literacy levels. We hypothesized that materials would fail to meet standards set by the Joint Commission and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). METHODS To identify patient education materials about IVF+PGT-M from academic databases and public-facing sources, an environmental scan was performed. Materials were analyzed using three validated scales: Simple Measure of Gobbledygook, Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool, and Clear Communication Index. RESULTS Seventeen patient education materials about IVF+PGT-M were identified from patient education databases, a consumer search engine, and professional organizations. The median reading level was 14.5 grade, median understandability was 74.2%, and median comprehensibility was 73.3%. CONCLUSIONS For most American adults, materials about IVF+PGT-M are not readable, understandable, or clear. The Joint Commission requires patient education materials be written at or below 5th grade reading level and the CDC recommends a 90% minimum score for comprehensibility. No evaluated material met these guidelines. Patient education materials that exceed average American literacy skills may perpetuate disparities in the utilization of IVF+PGT-M. Materials that communicate this complicated subject at an understandable level are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Macy L Early
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Priyanka Kumar
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Arik V Marcell
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Cathleen Lawson
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mindy Christianson
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Division of Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility, Lutherville, MD, USA
| | - Lydia H Pecker
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
The current state of sickle cell trait: implications for reproductive and genetic counseling. Blood 2019; 132:2331-2338. [PMID: 30487130 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-06-848705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell trait (SCT) is unique among the carrier states that are identified during newborn screening. Unlike other heterozygous states for rare recessive diseases, SCT is exceedingly prevalent throughout regions of the world, making sickle cell disease one of the most common monogenetic diseases worldwide. Because of this high frequency, reproductive counseling is of paramount importance. In addition, unlike other carrier states, SCT seems to be a risk factor for several clinical complications, such as extreme exertional injury, chronic kidney disease, and venous thromboembolism. Increasing knowledge about these clinical outcomes can help inform genetic counseling recommendations. Expanding research and clinical efforts are needed to ensure that the promises of modern and precision medicine can be delivered to the millions of SCT carriers and their children.
Collapse
|
9
|
Pecker LH, Naik RP. The current state of sickle cell trait: implications for reproductive and genetic counseling. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2018; 2018:474-481. [PMID: 30504348 PMCID: PMC6245976 DOI: 10.1182/asheducation-2018.1.474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Sickle cell trait (SCT) is unique among the carrier states that are identified during newborn screening. Unlike other heterozygous states for rare recessive diseases, SCT is exceedingly prevalent throughout regions of the world, making sickle cell disease one of the most common monogenetic diseases worldwide. Because of this high frequency, reproductive counseling is of paramount importance. In addition, unlike other carrier states, SCT seems to be a risk factor for several clinical complications, such as extreme exertional injury, chronic kidney disease, and venous thromboembolism. Increasing knowledge about these clinical outcomes can help inform genetic counseling recommendations. Expanding research and clinical efforts are needed to ensure that the promises of modern and precision medicine can be delivered to the millions of SCT carriers and their children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rakhi P. Naik
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Smith M, Praetorius RT. The Challenges and Opportunities Associated with Sickle Cell Disease Prevention, Education, and Management. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 30:592-612. [PMID: 26458116 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2015.1087905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary blood disorder affecting the shape of the red blood cells that block blood vessels leading to organ damage and frequent erratic painful episodes. SCD is a global public health issue affecting millions of people throughout the world. This article explores (a) what SCD is; (b) the physical and psychosocial impacts of the disease;
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Smith
- a The University of Texas at Arlington , Arlington , Texas , USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Life expectancy in sickle cell disease (SCD) has increased substantially and thus women with SCD are almost universally reaching child-bearing age. Studies on potential complications during pregnancy have generated mixed data; however, it is generally accepted that women with SCD are at higher risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes and maternal mortality. It is therefore critical that their care be provided by a team that includes a hematologist and a maternal-fetal medicine specialist. Despite the published risks, women with SCD are capable of successful pregnancy outcomes with proper education and well-coordinated multidisciplinary care. Further investigation is needed to standardize management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Biree Andemariam
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Lea Center for Hematologic Disorders, Adult Sickle Cell Clinical and Research Center, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cellular reprogramming: a new technology frontier in pharmaceutical research. Pharm Res 2011; 29:35-52. [PMID: 22068279 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-011-0618-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2011] [Accepted: 10/25/2011] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells via cellular reprogramming are now finding multiple applications in the pharmaceutical research and drug development pipeline. In the pre-clinical stages, they serve as model systems for basic research on specific diseases and then as key experimental tools for testing and developing therapeutics. Here we examine the current state of cellular reprogramming technology, with a special emphasis on approaches that recapitulate previously intractable human diseases in vitro. We discuss the technical and operational challenges that must be tackled as reprogrammed cells become incorporated into routine pharmaceutical research and drug discovery.
Collapse
|