Mercyhurst University Athletics

About Sickle Cell Trait

• Sickle cell trait is an inherited condition affecting the oxygen-carrying substance, hemoglobin, in the red blood cells.
• Sickle cell trait is a common condition (> three million Americans)
• Although Sickle cell trait occurs most commonly in African-Americans and those of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Indian, Caribbean, and South and Central American ancestry, persons of all races and ethnicities may test positive for this condition.
• Sickle cell trait is usually benign, but during intense, sustained exercise, hypoxia (lack of oxygen) in the muscles may cause sickling of red blood cells. This can accumulate in the bloodstream and "logjam" blood vessels, leading to collapse from the rapid breakdown of muscles starved of blood.
•  During intense exercise, sickle cell trait can block the normal blood flow to muscles. This can cause dizziness, loss of consciousness, physical distress, and death.

About Sickle Cell Laboratory Requirements for Participation

• Sickle cell laboratory results are an NCAA and Mercyhurst athletics requirement
• Sickle cell information can be found here from the NCAA
• Laboratory results must be submitted prior to participation in any sanctioned athletic event (games, practices, lifts, conditioning sessions etc.)
• Newborn screening results can possibly be accepted for sickle cell laboratory results
• A physician's signature without laboratory results cannot be accepted
• You are not disqualified from sport if you have sickle cell trait or disease
• Does Mercyhurst cover costs associated with sickle cell lab testing?
  •  No, it is the responsibility of the athlete and is billed only to the athlete's primary insurance
• How can I submit my lab results? (Lab results must have name and DOB) 
  • Email:sicklecellresults@mercyhurst.edu
  • Fax: 814-824-3324
  • Upload to ATS Portal via e-files tab

For FAQ and information about Newborn Screening Results Please click here