01-08-2011 | Commentary
Testing of Collegiate Athletes for Sickle Cell Trait: What We, as Genetic Counselors Should Know
Published in: Journal of Genetic Counseling | Issue 4/2011
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In August 2010, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) mandated that all of its incoming Division I student-athletes be tested for sickle cell trait. Student-athletes have the additional options to provide proof of a previous sickle cell test result or decline testing, by signing a waiver releasing their institution of liability. This article addresses the origins of the NCAA recommendations, and stresses the importance of proceeding with care. In doing so, it seeks to start a discussion in the genetic counseling community as to what, if any, should our role be?