Knowledge, Perception and Acceptance of Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease Among Pregnant Women in Bauchi, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Newborn screening (NBS) for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is performed at birth or within the neonatal period to facilitate early detection of SCD. Newborn screening, though not new in Africa, is not yet a routine procedure due to its high cost and difficulty in accessing screening facilities.

Objectives: To assess the knowledge and acceptance of NBS in a part of northern Nigeria.

Methods: This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design to examine pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic for booking over three months.

Results: Thirty-three out of 302 (10.9%) women were aware of NBS for SCD. Of this 33, the majority (84.8%) had a good level of knowledge of NBS. Most respondents (299; 99%) had a positive perception, and only 2.3% were not willing to accept NBS for SCD.

Conclusion: The Majority of respondents had a positive perception of NBS for SCD, and the study observed a high level of acceptance for NBS for SCD. Respondents were also willing to support and encourage other pregnant women to get their newborns tested for SCD, as early diagnosis will allow early initiation of interventions to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease.