Mandate Sickle Cell Trait Testing?

The March 2008 death of University of Central Florida football player Ereck Plancher, who collapsed after a supervised workout and was pronounced dead at a hospital hours later, was the most recent wake-up call for the athletic world about the dangers of sickle cell trait. The trait, which Plancher had, increases the likelihood of exertional rhabdomyolysis and other health problems during hard workouts, especially in hot weather.

The NCAA Division I Legislative Council is currently considering a proposal that would make a sickle cell solubility test (SST) a required part of pre-participation physicals. If passed, it would apply to D-I athletes in all sports, including incoming freshmen who participate in voluntary summer workouts on campus. Proposed jointly by Conference USA and the Southwestern Athletic Conference, the new rule would take effect in August 2010.

The NATA's position statement on sickle cell trait (PDF) indicates that it is one of the top three causes of non-traumatic sports deaths among high school and college athletes. Those who test positive don't need to give up sports--in fact, some NFL players have sickle cell trait, and the NFL Players Association sponsors a campaign to raise funds and awareness of the condition. But special precautions should be taken with athletes who have the trait, including a more careful approach to acclimatization and gradual increases in workload, diligent monitoring, and using caution when exercising at high altitudes.

This new screening rule seems like a no-brainer: Is there any compelling reason not to test? It's hard to imagine a better use for $5, especially when compared to the potential cost of not knowing an athlete has the sickle cell trait.