Knowledge of Sickle Cell Trait, Perception of Premarital Genetic Counselling and Testing, and Their Influence on Future Marital Decisions among Youths in Oko, Oyo State
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Abstract
Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with a high burden of morbidity and mortality. An estimated 150,000 newborns with SCD are born annually in Nigeria. Despite this burden, uptake of premarital genetic counselling and testing remains low, estimated at about 23% in a previous Nigerian study. This study assessed youths’ knowledge of sickle cell trait (SCT), their perception of premarital genetic counselling and testing (PGCT), and the influence of these perceptions on future marital decisions in Oko Community, Oyo State.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 unmarried youths selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics, while chi-square test and binary logistic regression were used to determine associations, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05.
Results: Awareness of SCT was 147 (36.8%), while awareness of SCD was 272 (68.0%). Overall, good knowledge of SCT and SCD was observed in 125 (31.2%) respondents. A total of 348 (87.0%) demonstrated positive perception toward PGCT, while only 40 (10.0%) had ever undergone genotype testing. Marital relationship status was a significant determinant of future marriage decisions regarding SCT (AOR: 5.332, 95% CI: 2.581–11.018, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The study revealed poor knowledge of SCT despite generally positive perceptions toward premarital testing. Bridging the gap between perception and practice through targeted health education and improved access to genetic testing is essential to reducing the burden of SCD
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