Knowledge and awareness of sickle cell disease: a cross sectional study amongst unmarried adults in Nigeria’s capital city

Abstract

Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder characterised by the tendency of haemoglobin to polymerise and deform red blood cells to a sickle or crescent shape; this consequently results in vaso-occlusive condition. A better knowledge and awareness about sickle cell disease amongst the population can help reduce its prevalence. This study aimed at assessing awareness and knowledge of unmarried adults in Nigeria’s capital. A cross sectional survey was undertaken amongst unmarried individuals residing in the Federal Capital Territory. Questionnaires were administered to participants using convenience sampling strategy. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were carried out. A total of 1423 questionnaires were completed and returned, response rate was 83.71%, male participants were in the majority as indicated by 52% of the sample, and the dominant age group was 21 to 30 years (47.90%). Almost all the study participants (92.50%), have heard about sickle cell disease. Knowledge about sickle cell disease was average, as mean score for all the participants was 9.01 ± 3.18, with a range of 0 to 17. Some misconceptions were observed, for instance some participants believed that bacterial or viral infections could cause sickle cell disease. Male participants had a higher knowledge score compared to females (p < 0.001), and older participants were more knowledgeable about sickle cell disease (p < 0.001). This study identified that knowledge gaps exist about sickle cell disease. Emergent findings can underpin government, policymakers’ and stakeholders’ contextual strategies to prevent sickle cell through public health enlightenment and other relevant means.