Understanding the impact of chronic red blood cell transfusion on day-to-day functioning in sickle cell disease (SCD): A mixed methods study of pediatric and adult experience
Mixed methods approach reveals significant pain and fatigue in pediatric and adult sickle cell disease patients, highlighting quality of life issues.
Key Points
Patients reported significant fatigue that worsens 2–3 weeks after transfusion, suggesting a cyclical burden.
Surveys indicated that adults experienced elevated pain and stiffness, with mean scores indicating lower-than-average functioning across multiple health domains.
Qualitative interviews uncovered challenges such as transportation issues and the stigma associated with vascular access procedures.
These findings emphasize the need for tailored interventions to support better health-related quality of life for those receiving chronic transfusion therapy.