Hidden brain damage in young sickle cell patients: new study aims to find answers

NCT ID NCT04808778

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study looks at how common strokes and silent brain injuries are in young adults (ages 16-25) with sickle cell anemia, especially in Nigeria where the disease is widespread. Researchers will use brain scans and blood tests to check for damage and identify risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes. The goal is to find better ways to prevent strokes in this high-risk group.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Hydroxyurea therapy (moderate dose of 20 mg/kg/day)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could identify key risk factors for stroke in young adults with sickle cell anemia, paving the way for targeted prevention strategies in low-resource settings.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study with a small sample size (250 participants) in one region of Nigeria, so results may not apply broadly. The study does not test a new treatment, so direct patient benefits are limited.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

ischemic stroke sickle cell disease cerebral infarction prevention target MRI defined brain infarct prevention target stroke disorder prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SICKLE CELL ANEMIA SICKLE CELL DISEASE SILENT CEREBRAL INFARCT SILENT STROKE STROKE STROKE, ISCHEMIC

Contacts and locations

Locations

Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital

Kano, Nigeria
Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Nashville, Tennessee, 37232-9000, United States

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