Abstract:
Introduction and Objectives: Thalassemia is one of the most common inherited disorders
caused by abnormalities in Hemoglobin synthesis. The successful prevention of the disease
depends on the awareness of the general population. The present study aimed to assess the
awareness and attitude towards Thalassemia and its associated factors among A/L (aged ≥18)
students in the Kurunegala education zone.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 854 A/L students at the Kurunegala
education zone from October 2020 to November 2021. A cluster sampling method was applied
to recruit the students. A self-administered questionnaire in Tamil and Sinhala versions was used
to collect data. The questionnaires were administered via Google forms and directly to students.
Data analysis was performed by SPSS 16 software based on research problems, objectives, and
variables. The level of awareness on thalassemia was measured out of 14 marks. Responses for
attitude questions were recorded using a five-point ‘Likert scale.’ Pearson product-moment
correlation, ANOVA, and T-tests were applied to find out the associated factors with awareness
and attitude.
Results: Completed 493 responses were received (response rate-57.7%). The results indicated
that the students had higher awareness with a mean score of 10.37 (SD =2.37) out of 14. Also,
the students had a positive attitude towards thalassemia with a mean score of 15.03 (SD= 3.12).
Age and the A/L study streams had a statistically significant association with awareness and
attitude scores, while the medium of study and positive family history of thalassemia were
associated with awareness. The type of school was associated with the student’s attitude.
Conclusion: The students had higher awareness and a positive attitude towards thalassemia.
National thalassemia prevention programs and the awareness programs of the schools may play a
significant contribution in raising awareness of thalassemia among Kurunegala students.
