Executive Function and Processing Speed in Children Living with Sickle Cell Anemia

Executive function and processing speed difficulties are observed in children living with sickle cell anemia (SCA). The influence of on executive is not well understood. We recruited 59 SCA 24 matched controls aged 8–18 years between 2010 2016 from clinics the UK. Children completed tests cognitive flexibility, subdomains function. MRI scans were conducted within one year testing; oxygen saturation was obtained day testing. Hemoglobin levels medical records. Caregivers questionnaire. Hierarchical linear regressions found that hemoglobin, saturation, age, infarct status, independent predictors for any model. However, all flexibility tests, there a significant interaction status speed; without silent cerebral infarction (SCI) faster had better flexibility. Our findings indicate that, when interpreting difficulties, it important to account relationship SCI speed. More research needed elucidate mechanisms, but clinically, including testing as part clinic visits by embedding psychologists healthcare team would appear be critical step.