Abstract:

This study investigated knowledge, attitude and practice toward premarital/prenatal genetic testing among young people of 15-45years of age in Sapele Local Government Area in Delta State Nigeria. Descriptive survey research design was used. The population of the study consisted of the members of four major communities (Amukpe, Amuogoddo, Okirighwe and Uguanja). The respondents were selected by simple random sampling method. The research instrument was a self-constructed questionnaire. A total of 50 respondents were selected. A total 50 questionnaire were distributed and same retrieved. The objectives of the study were to determine level of knowledge of premarital/prenatal genetic testing among young people, to assess the level of practice and to identify factors influencing their attitude towards premarital/prenatal genetic testing. The rational is to enhance young people’s knowledge about premarital/prenatal genetic testing, encourage premarital/prenatal genetic screening and also reduces some of the factors influencing attitudes of young people towards premarital/prenatal genetic testing. Data collected were analyzed using frequency and percentages and were presented using tables and graphs. The study shows that 30% of the respondent level of knowledge of premarital/premarital genetic testing is of high level, 70% of the respondents have low level of knowledge and the source of information was through media (20%), health personnel (40%), friends (6%) etc. The study also showed that the level of practice is low as 80% of the respondent does not practice premarital/prenatal genetic testing, only 20% practiced it. it also shows that there are some factors influencing their attitudes towards premarital/prenatal genetic testing which include lack of knowledge (66%), non affordability (20%), non Accessibility (55) and also as a result of non availabilities of centers (15%) where premarital/prenatal genetic testing should be carried out. In conclusion, lack of basic knowledge, negative attitude and practice has a negative impact on the young people, their family, their community and the society as a whole. It is therefore recommended that effort should be made by government, parents, and health personnel to improve knowledge, attitude and practice towards premarital/prenatal genetic testing thereby reducing the incidence rate of having children with genetic defect.

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