Risky behavior in teens with cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease: a multicenter study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Adolescent Medicine
• Chronic Illness Management

Background:

• Adolescents with chronic conditions like cystic fibrosis (CF) and sickle cell disease (SCD) may face unique challenges influencing health behaviors.
• Understanding the prevalence and age of onset of risky behaviors in these populations is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and age of onset of common risky behaviors in adolescents with CF and SCD.
• To compare these behaviors with those of adolescents in the general population.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted among 321 adolescents (aged 12-19) with CF or SCD at pediatric tertiary care centers in North Carolina.
• A demographically matched comparison group of 2760 adolescents was selected from North Carolina public schools.
• Key outcomes included prevalence and age of onset for tobacco/marijuana use, alcohol consumption, sexual activity, STDs, seat belt use, and weapon carrying.

Main Results:

• Adolescents with CF and SCD reported significantly lower rates of tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol use, less sexual intercourse, less weapon carrying, less drunk driving, and more seat belt use compared to peers.
• However, 21% of teens with CF and 30% with SCD had smoked, and 28% and 51% reported sexual intercourse, respectively.
• The age of onset for these behaviors was often older among the chronically ill adolescents.

Conclusions:

• Despite lower prevalence than peers, adolescents with CF or SCD engage in potentially damaging health risks at higher rates than anticipated.
• Longitudinal studies are needed to explore the interplay between chronic illness, maturation, and risky behaviors.
• Routine healthcare for chronically ill teens should include screening for psychosocial issues and risky behaviors.