AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS PREMARITAL GENOTYPE SCREENING AMONG YOUTHS IN A NIGERIAN LGA

  • Authors:Arise V.O, Sodunke T.G, Andorbe B.A, Inioluwa O.C., Ibrahim R.M.
  • Publication Date:June 30, 2026
  • Type:
  • Publication On:International Journal of Public Health and Disease Control
  • Volume/Issue:JUNE 2026 VOL. 1

Abstract

Background: Premarital genotype screening is conducted before marriage as an effective tool in providing couples with crucial information about their genetic makeup which helps assess the probability of transmitting genetic conditions to their offspring.

Objective: The study aims to assess the awareness and attitude towards premarital genotype screening among youth in Moro LGA, Kwara state.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was utilized with data collected from 413 respondents through structured interviews and survey questionnaires using a multistage sampling approach. The data were analyzed using basic statistical techniques, including frequencies, percentages and chi-square tests, with a significance threshold set at p<0.05.

Result: The study revealed that most respondents were young adults (mean age 29.6 ± 6.8 years), predominantly female (56.4%) and largely single (58.8%). Awareness of premarital genotype screening was moderate (59.6%) but only 41.6% had undergone screening. Despite strong positive perceptions (75.1%) and family support (76.5%), barriers such as lack of awareness (50.1%), perceived good health and cost hinders uptake. Peer influence was low while family influence was higher and gaps remain between awareness, attitude and actual screening practice. Education, income and age were significantly associated (p < 0.05) while marital status and occupation were not significantly associated with awareness and practice of premarital screening.

Recommendations: Premarital genotype screening should be made mandatory and affordable with improved access through equipped rural health centers. Public awareness must be enhanced through sustained education campaigns to address misconceptions. Genetic counseling should be culturally appropriate and widely available and should be integrated into routine healthcare and outreach programs expanded to communities.

Keywords: Premarital Screening, Sickle cell anemia, Youth, Genetic disorder 

6

figures

Fig. 1: A Pie Chart showing Gender Distribution of Respondents

Fig. 0 Fig. 1: A Pie Chart showing Gender Distribution of Respondents

Fig. 2: A Pie Chart showing Marital Status of Respondents

Fig. 1 Fig. 2: A Pie Chart showing Marital Status of Respondents

Fig. 3: A Pie Chart showing Level of Awareness of Premarital Genotype Screening among Respondents

Fig. 2 Fig. 3: A Pie Chart showing Level of Awareness of Premarital Genotype Screening among Respondents

References

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APA 7th Edition

Arise V.O, Sodunke T.G, Andorbe B.A, Inioluwa O.C., Ibrahim R.M. (2026). AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS PREMARITAL GENOTYPE SCREENING AMONG YOUTHS IN A NIGERIAN LGA. Home of Research Journal.

MLA 9th Edition

Arise V.O, Sodunke T.G, Andorbe B.A, Inioluwa O.C., Ibrahim R.M. “AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS PREMARITAL GENOTYPE SCREENING AMONG YOUTHS IN A NIGERIAN LGA.” Home of Research, 2026.

Harvard

Arise V.O, Sodunke T.G, Andorbe B.A, Inioluwa O.C., Ibrahim R.M. (2026) AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS PREMARITAL GENOTYPE SCREENING AMONG YOUTHS IN A NIGERIAN LGA, Home of Research.

Chicago Style

Arise V.O, Sodunke T.G, Andorbe B.A, Inioluwa O.C., Ibrahim R.M. “AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS PREMARITAL GENOTYPE SCREENING AMONG YOUTHS IN A NIGERIAN LGA.” Home of Research. 2026.