Sickle Cell Anemia and Pregnancy
with Carlene O. Fider, PhD
HRSA Research Project Coordinator & Co-Investigator, Assistant Clinical Professor
Loma Linda University School of Nursing and Behavioral Health
&
Lisa Roberts, DrPH, MSN, FNP‑BC, CHES, FAANP, FAAN
Professor and Research Director
Loma Linda University School of Nursing and Behavioral Health
In this presentation, Dr. Fider and Dr. Roberts discuss the connection between sickle cell trait (SCT), sickle cell disease (SCD), and reproductive health, including potential impacts on pregnancy and postpartum outcomes. They highlight the importance of education, screening, and supportive care in helping families make informed reproductive health decisions. The presentation also introduces the work of the LLU Sickle Cell Disease Care Clinic and Sickle Cell Treatment and Education Research Program, and shares resources for SCT- and SCD-informed education, testing, and support.
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Dr. Carlene Fider is an early-career social scientist with extensive experience in coordinating multidisciplinary efforts. She currently serves as the Project Coordinator for our current HRSA grant focused on maternal health and family planning for adolescents and young adults (AYA) with sickle cell disease or trait. In this role, Dr. Fider collaborates with various stakeholders to ensure the delivery of high-quality products and services that meet project specifications. She also monitors program progress and recommends necessary adjustments. Additionally, Dr. Fider works tirelessly to connect with community-based organizations to create collaborative opportunities, furthering our efforts to serve our at-risk community and disseminate the products and services made possible through the grant.
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Dr. Lisa Roberts is a tenured professor and the Research Director for Loma Linda University School of Nursing, with a secondary appointment in the School of Behavioral Health. Her primary research interest concerns maternal health and sickle cell disease. She uses mixed methods to inform community-based self-help interventions that address issues affecting vulnerable populations. Her clinical focus as a Family Nurse Practitioner is prevention and primary care. Her teaching, care, and research all aim to decrease health disparities.
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Resource Recommendations from Drs. Fider & Roberts
Loma Linda University Health Sickle Cell Disease Care
Loma Linda University Health's comprehensive sickle cell clinic offers adults medical treatment, as well as behavioral, emotional, and social support. Hematologists, internal medicine physicians, palliative care experts, behavioral health specialists, nurses, and community health workers work together on a care plan built around your needs. Treatment includes medications, IV infusion at a dedicated infusion center, blood transfusion, patient education, and referrals to specialty care. A monthly support group, the Sickle Cell Education Series, offers education and community connection, and telemedicine is available for many appointments. Care is provided with compassion and respect regardless of your race, ethnicity, economic status, or ability to pay.
Sickle Cell Disease Foundation
The Sickle Cell Disease Foundation is the first and oldest nonprofit social service organization for sickle cell disease in the United States, serving individuals and families for more than 60 years. The Foundation focuses on education and support programs that address the physical, psychosocial, and economic needs of its clients. A primary focus is educating, screening, and counseling people at risk of having children with sickle cell disease or other hemoglobin disorders.
Sickle Cell Fertility Preservation Grant
The Sickle Cell Reproductive Health Education Directive (SC RED), in partnership with NMDP (formerly Be The Match), runs the first and only grant program created specifically for individuals with sickle cell disease. The grants help people preserve their fertility before undergoing a bone marrow transplant. More than 20 grants have been awarded so far, with additional fertility resources in development.
Sickle Cell Reproductive Health Education Directive
The Sickle Cell Reproductive Health Education Directive (SC RED) works to empower people living with sickle cell disease to make informed decisions about their sexual, reproductive, and maternal health. The organization provides education on reproductive health concerns, sets standards for high-quality reproductive care across the lifespan, and advocates for policies that improve access to comprehensive care. Through education, advocacy, and collaboration with providers, policymakers, and community leaders, SC RED aims to eliminate disparities and promote health equity.