Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Adult males with sickle cell disease (SCD) may have abnormal semen parameters, raising the concern that SCD and/or treatments may impact fertility. Yet, studies that include adolescents are lacking. To determine if fertility testing is feasible in male adolescents with SCD, and to explore their experiences and outcomes of fertility testing, 33 adolescents who completed a web-based SCD reproductive health education program were offered a free semen analysis. Five (15%) obtained testing and each had abnormalities. Barriers to testing included lack of time and transportation and discomfort. Findings highlight the need for larger, longitudinal studies using innovative testing approaches.
Source: Pediatric Blood & Cancer
DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30848
Language: English
Subfield: Genetics
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
Awards: G1268834291, G75237253, G860365715, G9000099446
OpenAlex ID: W4390743001