Pediatric Clinician's Approach to Benefits and Limitations of Exercise in Children with Sickle Cell Disease and Sickle Cell Trait.

The pathophysiologic considerations that drive concerns about high-intensity exercise, sports participation, and exertion-related complications are distinct for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) versus sickle cell trait (SCT). The goal of exercise guidelines for individuals with SCD is to foster regular, safe exercise that may improve physical activity and fitness levels, but for individuals with SCT, the goal is to prevent exertional rhabdomyolysis and sudden collapse or death from high-intensity exercise. Pediatric clinicians need to understand the issues related to exercise safety, clearance, and prescription that they may face when caring for children and adolescents with SCD or SCT.