ABSTRACT

Introduction: Thalassaemia is a common genetic blood disorder. Knowledge, awareness, attitude towards, and intention to screen for thalassaemia among Malaysians is poor. Screening for thalassaemia in unmarried individuals plays a key role in preventing thalassaemia major births.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on unmarried individuals aged 18 years and older in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia. A questionnaire was used to collect the general data of the participants, their knowledge of thalassaemia, attitude towards thalassaemia, and intention to screen for thalassaemia.
Results: A total of 278 respondents were included in this study. The mean (SD) knowledge score was 8.8 (4.99) out of a possible score of 21, with higher scores indicating better knowledge. The factor associated with good knowledge of thalassaemia was being a professional. Most respondents agreed that unmarried individuals should be screened for thalassaemia before marriage.
Conclusion: In conclusion, knowledge of thalassaemia among unmarried individuals who were not professionals was low.