Objective:

To evaluate the association between coping strategies and transition readiness scores in young adults with sickle cell disease (SCD).

Approach:

• Study Design: Cross-sectional study using baseline data from the COMETS trial, focusing on young adults aged 17 to 28 transitioning to adult SCD care.
• Participants: Participants were recruited from five institutions and planned to transition to an adult SCD clinic within 12 months.
• Measures: Utilized the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ) and the Medical Outcome Study–Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS) emotional/information subscale.

Key Findings:

• Positive coping strategies are associated with higher transition readiness scores in chronic conditions based on previous research.
• Short-term efficacy of transition navigators has been noted in supporting patients with SCD during the transition process.
• Older patients tend to develop better coping strategies and demonstrate higher transition readiness.

Interpretation:

The study hypothesizes a correlation between positive coping strategies, better social support, and higher transition readiness scores in young adults with SCD.

Limitations:

• The study is a secondary analysis and may not capture all variables influencing transition readiness, potentially limiting the comprehensiveness of the findings.
• Specific data on the impact of emotional or educational social support on transition readiness in SCD has not been previously examined.

Conclusion:

The findings aim to enhance understanding of how coping strategies and social support can facilitate the transition from pediatric to adult care in young adults with SCD.

Sources:

• COMETS Study