Social Cognition and Sickle Cell Disease

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is monogenic disorder characterised by abnormalities in the red blood cells, specifically the haemoglobin molecule responsible for the transporting oxygen throughout the body. People with sickle cell disease have an increased risk for cognitive impairments and psychosocial problems. However, only a limited number of studies have explored the psychosocial problems associated with sickle cell disease from a neurocognitive perspective.

Aim: To investigate associations between social cognition and sickle cell disease.

Method: Eleven participants completed a neuropsychological assessment battery designed to assess premorbid ability, general cognition and social cognitive functioning.

Results: Individuals with sickle cell disease displayed weakness on social cognitive measures of theory of mind and affective empathy compared to the norm. These findings were observed in a highly educated sample who performed above average on measures of general cognition.

Discussion: Social cognitive impairments may be associated with SCD and could potentially explain the psychosocial problems experienced by this clinical population. However, given the novelty of this study, further research is necessary to draw reliable conclusions. Future studies should aim to replicate the findings in larger, more heterogenous sample and account for experiences of discrimination and internalising symptoms.