Awareness on thalassemia and opinion of carrier screening among young women from selected undergraduate colleges of udupi district

Abstract

IntroductionHemoglobinopathies are inherited disorders of red blood cells that poses significant cause of morbidity and mortality, impose a heavy burden on family. The study aims to assess the awareness of Thalassemia, and its willingness to screen among young women from Udupi district. MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed to assess the awareness on Thalassemia among young women belonging to the age group of 18–24 years from selected undergraduate institutions of the Udupi district. The study used descriptive statistics, data visualization methods and chi-square tests. ResultsAmong the 389 participants, 3(0.8%) of the participants reported Thalassemia in their families. Also, 28(7.2%) of the participants have a history of consanguineous marriage. 273 (70%) participants reported Thalassemia is a lifetime condition, whereas 284(73%) believed that consanguinity does not increase the Thalassemia incidence. According to 275(70%) respondents, premarital screening is not essential to rule out Thalassemia.The readiness of young women to screen for carrier status was estimated to be 57(15%), While 101(27%) were unwilling to screen, While 221 (58%) were unsure about screening for carrier status. Based on Pearson's Chi-Squared test, there was association between following variables: Age and Thalassemia awearness, (χ2 (4) = 13.749, p < 0.008), Education and Thalassemia awearness (χ2 (4) = 10.864, p < 0.028), knowledge score and family income (χ2 (8) = 21.100, p < 0.007). ConclusionThe premise suggests a lack of awareness of Thalassemia disorder among young women, this calls for an urgent need to revise the Thalassemia control programme.