Safe Marriage for Thalassemia Prevention: The Gap Between Knowledge and Practices among Bangladeshi University Students

Abstract

Abstract This study aimed to investigate thalassemia awareness and prevention among university students in Bangladesh, with a focus on demographic factors, attitudes, and opinions regarding safe marriage influencing their knowledge and behavior. Key findings showed that 54% of the participants were female, emphasizing the need for targeted educational efforts to address gender disparity. Furthermore, 92% of the participants were unmarried, highlighting the importance of preventive measures for this group. Science students exhibited higher knowledge levels (75%) than non-science students, emphasizing the necessity of extending thalassemia education to various disciplines. While students generally expressed positive attitudes towards thalassemia awareness, reservations about interacting with thalassemic individuals indicated social stigma that requires targeted efforts. There was strong support for both compulsory (85%) and voluntary (62%) screening for thalassemia. Demographic characteristics, including age, sex, residence, institute type, academic year, and economic status, significantly influenced knowledge levels, enabling tailored awareness campaigns. This study revealed the influence of demographic characteristics, disciplinary distinctions, attitudes, and opinions on thalassemia awareness and prevention among university students in Bangladesh. The statistical significance of these factors underscores their impact, and provides a foundation for evidence-based public health initiatives. By leveraging the positive attitudes found, customized interventions can effectively raise awareness, promote prevention, and reduce the burden of thalassemia among this vital demographic.