INFLUENCE OF SOCIO-CULTURAL FACTORS ON PREMARITAL SCREENING PRACTICES AMONG MALE AND FEMALE YOUTH IN ALIMOSHO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA.

Premarital screening is an important preventive healthcare intervention aimed at identifying genetic, infectious, and chronic health conditions among individuals intending to marry. It helps prospective couples understand their health status, identify potential reproductive health risks, and prevent the transmission of hereditary and communicable diseases to their partners and future offspring. This study focuses on the predictors of premarital screening among male and female youth in Alimosho Local Government Area, Lagos State, Nigeria. Specifically, it examines the level of awareness and knowledge of premarital screening, attitudes towards screening, perceived benefits, and factors influencing its utilisation among young people. Premarital screening plays a significant role in the early detection and prevention of conditions such as sickle cell disease, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and C, and other sexually transmitted infections. Evidence from countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and China demonstrates the potential of structured premarital screening programmes in reducing genetic and infectious disease transmission. Understanding the factors that influence young people's willingness to undertake premarital screening is essential for improving participation and promoting informed marital and reproductive health decisions. The study is expected to provide useful insights for developing targeted health education programmes, strengthening premarital counselling services, and improving access to screening services among male and female youth. These interventions could contribute to healthier marriages, informed reproductive choices, and improved public health outcomes.