Factors influencing Sickle Cell trait testing among Youths aged 18-35 years in Village Inn Cell, Agulu Division, Apac Municipality, Apac District. A cross-sectional study.
Keywords:
Sickle Cell trait testing, Youths aged 18-35 years, APAC Municipality, APAC DistrictAbstract
Background:
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a significant hereditary blood disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin production, leading to chronic health complications and premature mortality. The aim of this study was to assess factors influencing sickle cell trait testing among youths aged 18-35 years in Village Inn Cell, Agulu Division, Apac Municipality, Apac District.
Methodology:
The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional study design using quantitative methods of data collection. Informed consent was obtained from a total of 40 participants who were selected using a simple random technique. Data were collected using pretested structured self-administered questionnaires and were analyzed using the Microsoft Excel program and presented in frequency tables, pie charts, and graphs.
Results:
The study had 40 participants, of whom only 25% had heard of SCT testing; 30% of them had received the information from the hospital and media; 20% knew that PMGC is one way of preventing SCD; and 37.5% didn’t know how SCD can be diagnosed. Majority 75% were willing to test for SCT where 40% of those unwilling had fear for stigma in case they are carriers and only 32.5% had tested for SCT. Though70% of the participants reported that health facility screen for sickle cell on request however; they noted negative attitudes of the health workers towards sickle cell screening.
Conclusion:
Most of the participants had poor knowledge of sickle cell disease, and poor attitudes of health workers were highlighted as one of the factors influencing SCT testing; however, there is goodwill among healthcare providers to support them to do SCT testing.
Recommendation:
There is a need for the Ministry of Health to do public health education on sickle cell disease and invest more resources for disease prevention, testing, and treatment.
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