Publications

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is one of the most widespread hereditary disorders among the African lineage. SCD is associated with recurrent severe pain, increased morbidity and mortality yet has received less recognition in the public domain. Evidence of the need to increase awareness to reduce the disease incidence is increasing due to the rising incidenceof this preventable disease. This study aimed to describe the knowledge, beliefs and attitudetowards SCD of students at Kampala international university. A descriptive cross-sectionalstudy design was employed. A total of 384 university students participated in the study, andusing a semi-structured questionnaire, information was collected from participants ondemographic characteristics, general knowledge of SCD, and beliefs and attitudes of studentstowards SCD. Nearly all the students were aware of SCD (99.2%). Knowledge level ofrespondents on SCD based on scores revealed a mean score of 9.7± 4.5 with 65%, 30%, and5% for poor, moderate and excellent respectively. Most of the respondents strongly agreedthat they feel worried (52.9%) and sympathetic (51.3%) for people affected with SCD.Participants had the belief that it is an inherited disease acquired from parents (48.2%) butnot a punishment from God (76.3%). In general, there was a limited understanding andinadequate knowledge of SCD among the students particularly on the pattern of inheritance.Results from the study highlights the need for effective public health education on SCT/SCDin trusted sources such as schools, media (radio/Television), health centres and churches.This is necessary to address misconceptions and increase knowledge level as well as an understanding of the risks of having a child with SCD to influence personal reproductive options.