AWARENESS OF THE PRE-MARITAL SCREENING AMONG STUDENTS AT THE COLLEGE OF APPLIED MEDICAL SCIENCES IN TAIF UNIVERSITY

Abstract

Background: Premarital screening is an extensive batch of tests created especially for those getting ready to get married. These tests are intended to detect infections and inherited disorders as well as any health problems that may impact fertility. Pre-marital blood test awareness, attitudes, and opinions were evaluated in this survey of Taif University second year (group A) and fourth year (group B) male and female applied medical science students.

Materials and Method: The study involved 38 participants from group A and 43 participants from group B, who were surveyed over a three-week period. A link to the survey emailed and it distributed through various online platforms to students who agreed to participate in this survey.

The results showed that pre-marital blood tests were known to most participants in both groups prior to their enrolment in the applied medical science college. Group B mostly obtained information from lectures in the classroom, but group A used a variety of sources, including social media, internet sites, family, and general information. Pre-marital testing has cultural and religious implications, which both groups acknowledged. Compared to group B, group A showed a greater proportion of participants who supported requiring pre-marital blood testing for all new couples. Furthermore, group B showed more variability in their responses to the various tests included in pre-marital screening. Most participants from group A believed that pre-marital screening should be mandatory for all new couples and expressed higher confidence in explaining its importance to others compared to group B. Both groups indicated a preference for online videos or webinars as educational sources to improve awareness about pre-marital screening. Healthcare professionals were seen as having a crucial role in providing clear information and collaborating with leaders to promote society-wide awareness. While both groups expressed willingness to participate in awareness campaigns, group A showed a higher inclination to organize such campaigns. It is essential to comprehend the viewpoints of medical science students in order to evaluate the program's acceptability and efficacy among prospective medical professionals.

Conclusion:  The study highlights the importance of continuous efforts to educate and inform the public about pre-marital screening to maximize its benefits and prevent genetic disorders in future generations.