Knowledge of Sickle Cell Disease among University Students in Port Harcourt
Tamuno-Opubo Abiye *
Department of Human Physiology, College of Medical Sciences, Rivers State University, Nigeria.
Stanley Rosemary Oluchi
Department of Internal Medicine, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Ezeugwu Sampson Ibekwe
Department of Haematology, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Chimenem Simple Tamuno-Opubo
Platinum Premier Medical Center, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a hereditary haemoglobinopathy that has been related with significant mortality in Nigeria. Knowledge on cause, prevention and risk factors are important for adequate control of the occurrence of SCD.
Methods: A cross sectional study on the awareness of SCD was carried out among undergraduate students in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was interviewer-administered to 146 students.
Results: The study showed that 97.9% claim to have heard about sickle cell, while 68.5% indicated that the source of information on sickle cell was in school. One hundred and twenty-seven (87%) indicated that SCD describes abnormal blood cells. In 68.5% the source of information on SCD was in school. Only 42% had a good awareness on SCD. Students of male gender, of less than 20 years, with less average family income were more likely to have poor awareness of SCD.
Conclusion: The study shows the need for improved awareness on SCD and increased awareness campaigns on every available media platform.
Keywords: Knowledge, awareness, sickle cell disease, undergraduates, Port Harcourt.