Assessment of psychosocial functioning of patients with sickle cell disease

The Chronic Illness Problem Inventory (CIPI) was used to assess level of psychosocial functioning in 89 patients with sickle cell disease. The results indicated that sickle cell patients have significant psychosocial distress in the areas of employment and finances, sleeping and eating, and performance of normal daily activities. Fear and anxiety regarding body deterioration, and lack of assertiveness in social relationships were also found. These findings suggest that depression may be a common problem among sickle cell patients. Treatment alternatives that address these areas are reviewed.