Strategies for Managing Transition Readiness and the Role of Social Support in Youth with Sickle Cell Disease

Overview

This study evaluates the association between coping strategies and transition readiness in young adults with sickle cell disease (SCD).

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects approximately 100,000 individuals in the US, primarily those of African descent. With over 95% of children with SCD surviving into adulthood, the transition to adult care is crucial for maintaining health outcomes. Suboptimal transitions can lead to poorer disease management and increased healthcare utilization.

Data Highlights

This study utilized baseline data from the COMETS trial, focusing on the relationship between coping strategies and transition readiness scores in young adults with SCD.

Key Findings

• Positive coping strategies are associated with higher transition readiness scores in young adults with SCD.
• Social support is reported to play a role in transition readiness.
• Barriers to effective transitions include negative perceptions of adult care and socioeconomic challenges.
• Self-advocacy and strong communication are noted as important for navigating healthcare systems.
• Older patients are observed to develop better coping strategies, which may impact their transition readiness.

Clinical Implications

The study findings suggest that enhancing coping strategies and social support systems for young adults with SCD may improve transition readiness.

Conclusion

The study highlights the relationship between coping strategies and social support in preparing young adults with SCD for the transition to adult care.

Related Resources & Content

1. JAMA Network Open, 2025 -- Toward Health Care Structure–Informed Measures of Transition Success for Young Adults With Sickle Cell Disease
2. Pediatric Cardiology, 2025 -- Quality of Life Assessment in Young Individuals with Congenital Heart Disease: Influencing Factors and the Role of Perceived Readiness for Adulthood
3. JAMA Network Open, 2025 -- Sustainment of Hydroxyurea Adherence in Patients With Sickle Cell Disease
4. WHO consolidated guidelines for the management of common childhood illness: management of sickle-cell disease in children and adolescents
5. Bone Marrow Transplantation — Psychiatry and Psychology Group Poster Presentations at the 51st Annual European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation Meeting (Posters 910–918)
6. Community Health Worker and Mobile Health Interventions for Quality of Life Among Young Adults With Sickle Cell Disease: A Randomized Clinical Trial
7. Improving Health Care Transition for Young Patients With Sickle Cell Disease Through Quality Network
8. WHO consolidated guidelines for the management of common childhood illness: management of sickle-cell disease in children and adolescents