Knowledge and Attitude Regarding Sickle Cell Anemia Among Tharu Students of Selected School, Bardiya

Abstract Aim: Sickle-cell anemia (SCA) is a common genetic condition due to a hemoglobin disorder – inheritance of mutant hemoglobin genes from both parents. The Tharu ethnic group of Nepal is one of the most affected by SCA. They should be highly aware of its control and prevention. Despite such a necessity, limited research has been conducted to identify their level of knowledge. The present study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and attitude regarding sickle cell anemia among Tharu students of selected school, Bardiya. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 175 Tharu students from classes 8 to 12. The school was selected based on having the highest number of Tharu students in the municipality and simple random sampling technique was used to select the sample. Data were collected through face to face interview technique using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data entry was done in MS Excel, and analysis was carried out using descriptive and inferential statistics (chi-square test) through the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 to identify associations between knowledge and selected socio-demographic variables. Results: The study revealed that the majority (58.9%) of respondents demonstrated average knowledge regarding SCA and there was a significant association in between the level of knowledge and sex of respondents at (P=0.006). Although average level of knowledge was prevalent among the respondents, majority showed a positive attitude, particularly towards newborn and premarital screening, which proved to be highly influential among them. Conclusion: The findings indicated that sex plays a significant role in influencing knowledge about SCA. Specific health education to improve awareness, with gender-specific deficits, is needed. Their positive attitudes towards premarital and neonatal screening can be attached to improve preventive interventions. Culturally targeted programs to aid in correcting misconceptions about life impact and reproductive choice are needed.