Sickle Cell Disease Study

This study looks at the natural history of sickle cell disease, which is a blood disorder where red blood cells become misshapen and can block blood flow, causing pain and problems. It doesn't involve any new treatments or experimental drugs. Instead, it focuses on understanding the disease and its complications better. Participants will visit clinics either at the NIH (National Institutes of Health) or CNHS (Children's National Health System) for tests and evaluations. Visits may happen more than once depending on the need, and patients will continue their usual medical care elsewhere.

The study will collect samples like blood or tissue to help researchers learn more about the disease. These samples are stored in a special collection, called a repository, to study disease mechanisms. If eligible for other research, participants might be asked to join additional studies, but only with their agreement, known as informed consent. Participation is open to those 2 years and older, with known or suspected sickle cell disease, who can give consent.

• Participants may need to visit the clinic multiple times.
• No new treatments are provided in this study.
• Participants can continue their usual medical care outside the study.