In medicine, there is an undeniable magic in exploring the intricate mechanisms of the human body. The journey into hematology, particularly the study of venous thromboembolism (VTE), has been one of curiosity, discovery, and purpose. In this blog article, I will reflect on the work I do and the future direction I envision as I continue to contribute to this vital field.
My path to hematology began with a deeply personal connection, losing both of my parents. This loss sparked my interest in understanding the complexities of the human body and the factors that contribute to disease and inspired a drive to explore diseases impacted by health disparities and social determinants of health. This motivation ultimately led me to focus on sickle cell disease (SCD), a condition that disproportionately affects marginalized populations.
My first clinical experience at the Meharry Sickle Cell Center was a turning point. Working with patients with SCD and sickle cell trait revealed the unique challenges they face, particularly their heightened risk for thrombotic complications during pregnancy—a topic that became the foundation for my first grant-funded research project.
As I progressed through my medical training, this interest was further nurtured by participation in impactful workshops, such as the Hemostasis and Thrombosis Research Society’s (HTRS) SEARCH workshop. These opportunities allowed me to immerse myself in the study of blood disorders and collaborate with experts at the forefront of research.
Focusing on VTE During Pregnancy
Today, my focus is on better understanding the risk factors for VTE, specifically in pregnant individuals with sickle cell disease. Pregnancy is a critical period where thrombotic risk escalates due to physiological changes. For individuals with SCD, these risks multiply due to factors like chronic inflammation and vascular complications.
This research has already yielded significant results. A history of VTE before pregnancy, hydroxyurea use before pregnancy, acute chest syndrome during pregnancy, and painful events needing acute care during pregnancy were all associated with VTE during pregnancy for individuals with SCD. I was honored to present my findings at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) 65th Annual Meeting, where my abstract titled “Risk Factors for Thrombosis in Pregnant People with Sickle Cell Disease: A Multinational Study” garnered recognition. Winning the ASH Allistair Abraham Award for the highest-ranking Hematology Inclusion Pathway Medical Student Award Program recipient was a testament to the importance of shedding light on disparities in health outcomes for underserved populations.
My work has reinforced my belief in the power of clinical research to change lives. By identifying specific VTE risk factors in vulnerable populations, I aim to contribute to targeted interventions and personalized care strategies that improve patient outcomes.
As I look ahead, my ultimate goal is to build a robust, interdisciplinary research program focused on VTE, particularly in populations at the intersection of hematology and obstetrics. Key areas I hope to explore include:
· Developing Predictive Models for VTE Risk: Leveraging large datasets and machine learning algorithms to predict thrombotic risk in pregnant individuals with SCD and other high-risk populations.
· Exploring the Role of Anticoagulation: Investigating optimal anticoagulation strategies during pregnancy and postpartum periods to prevent VTE without increasing the risk of bleeding complications.
· Studying Social Determinants of Health: Understanding how socioeconomic factors, access to care, and racial disparities influence the incidence and outcomes of VTE.
· Advancing Translational Research: Collaborating with basic scientists to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets that could revolutionize the way we approach thrombosis prevention and treatment.
In Summary
VTE is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, yet it remains under-researched in certain populations. By focusing on conditions like SCD and pregnancy, I hope to shed light on how systemic inequities and biological complexities interact to shape health outcomes. My work is about more than just understanding VTE; it’s about empowering patients with the knowledge, care, and resources they need to thrive.
As I continue this journey, I invite others to join me—clinicians, researchers, and advocates alike. Together, we can push boundaries, challenge assumptions, and bring about meaningful change. By uniting our expertise, we can ensure that no patient is left behind in the fight against venous thromboembolism.
Sacha Choupa
Red Cross Ambassador, Sickle Cell Research Lead and Aspiring Hematologist
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