Exploring the Role of Premarital Genetic Counselling and Sickle Cell Disease Prevention: A Study of Awareness and Knowledge among Nigerian Female Undergraduates

Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a significant public health concern in Nigeria, affecting an estimated 2%–3% of the population. Premarital genetic counselling (PGC) plays a crucial role in preventing SCD by informing individuals about genetic risks and inheritance patterns. Despite its importance, the awareness and uptake of PGC remain suboptimal among young adults, particularly in university settings. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of premarital genetic counselling for SCD prevention among female undergraduate students at Babcock University, Nigeria. The study seeks to identify the gaps in understanding and barriers to engagement with PGC among this key demographic. Methodology: A descriptive quantitative survey design was employed, using a multistage sampling technique to select 344 female students from various academic levels at Babcock University. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed knowledge of PGC, perceived susceptibility to SCD, and attitudes toward genetic counselling. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including regression analyses to examine the relationships between the knowledge and perceptions of SCD. Results: The study found that 66.8% of participants were aware of premarital genetic counselling, although misconceptions persisted, with 27.3% erroneously believing that SCD could be transmitted via direct contact or mosquito bites. A regression analysis revealed significant positive relationships between knowledge and perceived susceptibility (β = 1.34, R² = 0.91) and perceived seriousness (β = 0.93, R² = 0.94) of SCD. Demographic factors such as age, marital status, ethnicity, and religion were found to significantly influence awareness levels. Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of addressing the misconceptions and knowledge gaps about SCD and genetic counselling. Targeted educational interventions, especially those tailored to demographic and cultural factors, are essential to improve awareness and promote preventive behaviors. Expanding the access to PGC services and integrating SCD education into curricula are crucial steps in reducing the burden of SCD in Nigeria.