Primary Prevention of Genetic Disorders among Secondary School Students in a Rural Area

Abstract

Abstract: Aim : The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of primary prevention program of genetic disorders among secondary school students in a rural area. Design : A quasi-experimental design was used Setting : The study was conducted at secondary school representing in a rural area in Egypt (El-khosos District, El Qalubia Governorate). Sample: All students in all classes (from the three grades) of the selected school, the total numbers were 750 students (380 male students & 370 female students). Tool: Self Administrated questionnaire was used by the researchers in Arabic language to assess socio-demographic characteristics, and students' knowledge. Results: Less than half of the male students 1 st degree have family history consanguinity, while more than half of the studied sample do not prefer consanguinity marriage. The male and female students' knowledge regarding the reproductive health concepts, fertilization, risk of consanguinity marriage, causes of increasing genetic disorders , transmission of genetic traits from parents to children, also primary prevention of genetic disorders were improved after the program from poor to good. There was a highly statistically significant difference between socio-demographic characteristics of secondary school students and their total knowledge. Conclusion: This study showed highly statistical significant differences between pre / post program implementation and revealed highly statistically significant differences between socio-demographic characteristics of secondary school students and their total knowledge. Recommendations: Continuous health educational programs for students in different grades focusing on primary prevention of genetic disorders such as premarital care, consanguineous marriage, and reproductive health. Different mass media especially TV messages to give information for youth, family, and community. [Hanan Ibrahim Ahmed, Hemat Abd Elmonem Esayied and Naglaa. Girgis. Primary Prevention of Genetic Disorders among Secondary School Students in a Rural Area .