AWARENESS AND ACCEPTABILITY OF PRE-MARITAL SCREENING FOR SICKLE CELL AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN KENYA

ABSTRACT Background Sickle cell disease is a severe autosomal recessive disorder most prevalent in people of African descent. It is associated with significant morbidity and premature death. Premarital screening for sickle cell is a cost-effective strategy intended to minimize high risk couplings. Premarital screening for sickle cell is yet to be adopted in Kenya. Aim this study sought to assess awareness and acceptance of premarital screening for sickle cell among a young Kenyan population. Materials and Methods A descriptive cross-sectional research design utilizing an online, self-administered, questionnaire was conducted among 314 University students selected by multistage sampling technique. Statistical analysis was done using descriptive methods. The following domains were assessed: Students demographics, Knowledge of inheritance patterns, Attitude and perception towards premarital screening for sickle cell and, acceptance of premarital screening. Chi square test was used to determine significance of association between the study variables and the two groups. Results A total of 314 unmarried students were recruited with 134 (43%) medical students and 180 (57%) non-medical students. Males were 172(55%) and females 142(45%). Majority; 191(61%) were between ages 21∼25. Overall good knowledge was 241(77%). Sickle cell was identified as a heritable disorder by 123(92%) of medical students and 98(54%) non-medical students. Diagnosis of sickle cell via blood test was correctly identified by 121(90%) medical and 92(51%) non-medical students. Premarital screening was identified as beneficial by 124(93%) medical and 136(76%) non-medical students. Majority of non-medical students (54%) had negative attitude towards pre-marital screening compared 10% medical students. Of all respondents, 74(24%) were unwilling to undergo premarital screening for sickle cell. A Total of 44(14%) were unsure whether to undergo screening or not. Conclusion Sickle cell is the commonest monogenic disorder in Kenya. Kenyan youths demonstrated significant gaps on knowledge on inheritance patterns, attitude and perception towards premarital screening for sickle cell. There was also limited acceptability to undergo individual premarital screening and genetic counselling. Health education on premarital screening and genetic counselling is an important intervention at reducing burden and prevalence of sickle cell disease.