Investigating Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Young Couples Referring to Healthcare Centers of Kashmar City for Thalassemia

Abstract

Background & Purpose: Since there is no definitive treatment for patients with thalassemia major, prevention is the most effective step in combating this disease. In this regard, the purpose of the present study was to investigate thalassemia knowledge, attitude, and practice of young couples planning to get married in Kashmar City.

Materials & methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study that was carried out on 420 young people planning to get married in Kashmar. The data collection tool included a researcher-made questionnaire. Data analysis was also carried out using Chi-square, Pearson's correlation coefficient, Tukey's test, and group t-test.

Results: The results of the present research showed high knowledge, good attitude, and favorable practice regarding thalassemia in 32.6%, 73.4%, and 11.4% of cases, respectively. Statistical tests also revealed a significant relationship between age, level of education, seeing a patient with thalassemia, knowing about the disease, and the marital status of the couple with the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of people, that is, increasing knowledge led to an improvement in attitude and practice scores.

Discussion & Conclusion: The higher the participants' knowledge regarding thalassemia, the more acceptable their attitude and practice will be; therefore, it is recommended to develop and implement the necessary educational programs at the social level.