Breastfeeding Support and Early Life Factors Study in Mothers of Infants with Sickle Cell Disease in Birmingham, Alabama

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are examining how early life factors like Adverse Childhood Experiences, social determinants of health, and breastfeeding affect children with sickle cell disease. This study evaluates behavioral interventions designed to improve psychological resilience and lifestyle, aiming to promote better health outcomes for these children. The study is a randomized, prevention-focused trial involving mother-infant pairs. Twenty mother-infant pairs will be randomly assigned to one of two groups a community-based breastfeeding support group or an observation group. The support group includes an online social media-based support system, educational modules, monthly in-person sessions, access to free breast pumps, and monthly peer-led home visits by certified health specialists. Both groups will be observed over 24 months with blood samples collected at multiple timepoints to analyze inflammation and oxidative stress. Participants will be monitored for intervention adherence and acceptability over six months, with preliminary effectiveness assessed over two years. Researchers will compare inflammation biomarkers, the development of asthma, and incidences of pain or acute chest syndrome between groups. Assessments include regular blood specimen collection and health monitoring up to four years to evaluate long-term outcomes for children with sickle cell disease.

Early Life Exposures Among Children With Sickle Cell Disease