Understanding pain severity in sickle cell disease

Predictors of Pain Severity and Pain-Related Outcomes in Individuals with Sickle Cell Disease

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10904941

This study is looking at what might cause different levels of pain in people with sickle cell disease, so doctors can better help those who are at risk for severe pain and find new ways to manage it without using opioids.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10904941 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the factors that predict pain severity and related outcomes in individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). By using a prospective, longitudinal study design, the research aims to identify psychological and sensory predictors of pain outcomes. The study will help clinicians better understand which patients are at risk for severe pain, thereby improving management strategies and informing clinical trials for non-opioid pain interventions. The findings could lead to more personalized care for patients suffering from SCD-related pain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease, particularly those experiencing varying levels of pain.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of sickle cell disease or those who do not experience pain related to the condition may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies and better quality of life for patients with sickle cell disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying psychological and sensory factors as predictors of pain outcomes in chronic pain conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.