It seems that the NCAA is debating about requiring screening for the sickle cell trait. Apparently this trait can cause explosive heart muscle breakdown in extreme conditions.
Quote:
Research shows how and why sickle red cells can accumulate in the bloodstream during intense exercise. Sickle cells can “logjam†blood vessels and lead to collapse from ischemic rhabdomyolysis, the rapid breakdown of muscles starved of blood. Major metabolic problems from explosive rhabdomyolysis can threaten life. Sickling can begin in 2-3 minutes of any all-out exertion – and can reach grave levels soon thereafter if the athlete continues to struggle.
Heat, dehydration, altitude, and asthma can increase the risk for and worsen sickling, even when exercise is not all-out. Despite telltale features, collapse from exertional sickling in athletes is under-recognized and often misdiagnosed. Sickling collapse is a medical emergency.
Heat, dehydration, altitude, and asthma can increase the risk for and worsen sickling, even when exercise is not all-out. Despite telltale features, collapse from exertional sickling in athletes is under-recognized and often misdiagnosed. Sickling collapse is a medical emergency.
Should colleges, or other sporting organizations be required to screen athletes for the trait?
Should they then ban the students from sports?
If they don't ban a student, and that student should suffer from explosive heart muscle breakdown (usually resulting in death), should the school be liable?
If you were on the path to becoming a sports superstar and you found out you had this trait, would YOU push yourself to the limits in hopes of making the pros if it could also mean an early, but sudden and fairly painless death?
Btw, Sickle cell is not just for Negroes anymore.