Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), an optical tool that leverages light-tissue interaction to measure changes in hemoglobin concentration and oxygenation, has been used in a variety of fields due to its ability to measure tissue oxygenation and blood flow noninvasively. In a new study led by Carnegie Mellon University and University of Pittsburgh researchers, NIRS was investigated as a screening tool for adults with sickle cell disease to assess not only oxygenation changes, but also the underlying mechanisms associated with aging with the disease.