Knowledge and Attitude Toward Hemoglobinopathy Premarital Screening Program Among Students of Health Colleges at Qassim University.

INTRODUCTION

Premarital screening (PMS) for hemoglobinopathies, particularly thalassemia and sickle cell disease, is a public health campaign designed to reduce the prevalence of these genetic illnesses in kids. The purpose of this study was to assess knowledge and attitudes concerning PMS for hemoglobinopathies, including sickle cell anemia and thalassemia, among health college students at Qassim University.

METHODS

A cross-sectional methodology was employed with a standardized, self-administered questionnaire examining students' awareness and attitudes toward PMS. Participants' knowledge of sickle cell anemia and thalassemia screening was assessed, as well as their views on marrying someone who has the same genetic illness. Chi-square and analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests were used to assess the relationships between demographic characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes.

RESULTS

This study examined knowledge and attitudes toward hemoglobinopathies PMS among 300 young adults. Participants demonstrated high knowledge levels (mean score 6.93/8, 86.7%) and positive attitudes (mean score 11.46/14, 81.9%). Knowledge was significantly higher among university-educated participants (p < 0.001). While attitudes were generally positive across demographics, older participants (26-44 years) exhibited significantly more positive attitudes than those aged 18-25 (p = 0.008). There is strong support for PMS (94.7%) and public awareness initiatives (>99%) but less agreement on marrying someone with the same genetic trait (62.5%) and less consensus on the significance of seminars (20.8%).

CONCLUSION

Health college students at Qassim University have a strong understanding of PMS for hemoglobinopathies, with educational level influencing knowledge depth and attitudes. The findings indicate that additional educational programs, notably on the significance of screening in lowering genetic transmission risks, are needed. Raising public awareness through targeted seminars and media initiatives may improve the acceptability and understanding of PMS.