Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
This research study wants to learn about what kind of exercise is best for kids with sickle cell disease. Participating children will have a small amount of blood drawn one time at the beginning of the study. Children will then complete some questionnaires that measure pain, physical function, and emotions (depression, anxiety) and complete some tests that measure physical fitness at the beginning and end of the study. Children will be randomized to either a home-based telehealth (1) walking or (2) strengthening exercise program that lasts for 8-weeks, 3-x week, for 45 minutes each session. Children's participation will last up to 10 weeks.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * youth 12 to 17 years old * diagnosed with SCD genotype SS, SC, beta-plus thalassemia, or beta-zero thalassemia * has daily access to an Internet enabled device (e.g., smart phone, IPad) A parent (≥21 years old) will also be recruited for each youth participant. Exclusion Criteria: * non-English speaking due to lack of available written translation services for informed consent and questionnaires * cognitive impairment (e.g., moderate to profound intellectual disability) that precludes study completion * medical condition (e.g., hypertension, bone fracture) that precludes completing exercise safely (determined by study medical director Dr. McNaull).