Digital cognitive rehabilitation for youth with sickle cell disease

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This pilot clinical trial evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of a digital cognitive rehabilitation program for children and adolescents aged 7-16 with sickle cell disease. The intervention combines Cogmed working memory training with social support and memory strategy training to enhance adherence and cognitive performance. The study aims to address cognitive deficits associated with sickle cell disease, which can significantly impact the quality of life and neurological health of affected youth. By incorporating social elements and support, the program seeks to improve engagement and outcomes in cognitive training.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosis of sickle cell disease (any genotype).
2. Between ages 7-16 years old.
3. Patients will only enter the treatment phase if they score \>1 SD below the normative mean on at least one standardized working memory assessment (i.e., Digit Span or Spatial Span subtests) or demonstrate a relative weakness in working memory (\>1 SD below the estimated IQ).

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Motor, visual, or auditory impairment that prevents computer use.
2. Diagnosis of a mental health condition that precludes, or takes treatment precedence over, participation in the cognitive training.
3. History of photosensitive seizures.
4. Insufficient English fluency.
5. Recent initiation or dose adjustment of a stimulant medication to treat attention problems (\< 30 days).

Where it's running

• Children's National Hospital
  Washington D.C., District of Columbia, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Steven Hardy, PhD — Children's National Research Institute
• Study coordinator: Steven Hardy, PhD
• Email: sjhardy@childrensnational.org
• Phone: 202-476-5000

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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• Virtual reality options to help with VOC pain in adults with SCD

  This study tests whether headset-based virtual reality can help reduce pain for adults with sickle cell disease during vaso-occlusive crises treated in an infusion center.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.