KNOWLEDGE AND UTILIZATION OF PREMARITAL SCREENING FOR SICKLE CELL DISEASE AMONG RESIDENTS OF GUMEL METROPOLIS, JIGAWA STATE
Abstract
Abstracts
Background: This study titled “Knowledge and Utilization of Premarital Screening for Sickle Cell Disease Among Residents of Gumel Metropolis, Jigawa State, Nigeria” examined the awareness, perception, and uptake of premarital sickle cell screening among residents.
Methodology: The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design with structured questionnaires administered to participants within the Gumel metropolis area.
Result: Findings revealed that while a significant proportion of respondents demonstrated awareness of sickle cell disease and the importance of premarital screening, actual utilization of the screening services remained relatively low. Cultural beliefs, inadequate counseling, and limited access to screening facilities were identified as major barriers affecting utilization. The study highlights the gap between knowledge and practice, underscoring the need for improved strategies to promote screening uptake.
Recommendation: The study recommends sustained community health education campaigns to increase awareness and encourage greater utilization of premarital sickle cell screening services among residents of Gumel metropolis.
Conclusion: The knowledge of premarital screening for sickle cell disease among residents of Gumel metropolis is poor. The community understands the "what" but not the "why" or "how" of SCD and genetic screening.
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