The State-of-the-Art Methodology Behind New Sickle Cell Disease Guidelines

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that affects the red blood cells and occurs when a person has inherited a sickle cell gene from each parent. The sickle-shaped red blood cells break apart easily, clump together, and stick to the walls of blood vessels, blocking the flow of blood and causing a range of complications, including severe pain, acute chest syndrome (a condition that affects the lungs), stroke, organ damage, and even premature death. The American Society of Hematology (ASH) believes it is essential to provide updated treatment guidelines that reflect the newest evidence about the disease, ensuring the medical community can better treat SCD and people with SCD can make the best decisions for their care. In partnership with the Evidence-Based Practice Research Program at Mayo Clinic, the 2019-2020 ASH Clinical Practice Guidelines on SCD were developed using the GRADE methodology to ensure the highest standards for trustworthiness.   Abstract source