Dr. Lauren Weinand

Before the pandemic, Ohio offered in-person education for parents of children with sickle cell trait (SCT), a condition that afflicts about 8% of African Americans born each year. It was found that participating individuals with a low health literacy rate were less likely to achieve a suitable level of knowledge about managing SCT. This study,...

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a chronic, autosomal, recessive disease caused by a mutation in hemoglobin’s beta chain that results in structural alterations to the red blood cell membrane, lowering its average lifespan and oxygen-carrying capacity. This study, published in Hematology, Transfusion, and Cell Therapy, sought to determine the impact of neuropathic pain on quality of life...

A successful transition from pediatric to adult care is crucial for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) living with sickle cell disease. Preparation for this transition is key to reducing the morbidity and mortality risks they could potentially face later in life. Researchers at the University of Missouri conducted a cross-sectional, correlational study to explore the...

It is considered best practice for kids with sickle cell anemia to receive antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent serious infections. Additionally, it is recommended that they undergo transcranial Doppler (TCD) screening to determine their risk of overt stroke. However, it remains unclear how many children with sickle cell anemia actually receive antibiotic prophylaxis and/or undergo TCD...

Of the over 100,000 people in the U.S. with sickle cell disease (SCD), many face barriers to care in the forms of racism, low income, and lack of access to treatment through publically insured programs. As a result, this population can often find themselves cornered into what feels like a healthcare system that does not...

We know sickle cell disease (SCD) is most prevalent in people of African descent. However, a limited number of studies have evaluated whether sex-based differences occur with SCD. These studies have found that females with SCD are more likely to outlive males with SCD. One case series found that a handful of women with SCD...

Barriers to proper treatment for sickle cell disease (SCD) depend not only on individual patient factors. Other factors involving healthcare provider knowledge on treating SCD and expertise can also hinder access to appropriate care. SCD is a rare disease that can lead to acute and chronic complications in patients. For this reason, optimal care is...

Pain, along with swelling and fatigue, is one of the cornerstone symptoms of sickle cell disease. Children with sickle cell disease may often experience painful vaso-occlusive episodes, which require appropriate pain management. In most cases, adequate pain management consists of rehydration, rest, and analgesics. But where do opioids fit into this treatment strategy? Common analgesics...

As one of the most commonly inherited disorders, sickle cell disease can warrant the need for specialized treatment plans. Especially when it comes to pain, different factors can arise and impact the daily lives of those with sickle cell disease. Therefore, there is a need for individualized care plans when treating acute pain crises from...