Background: Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is the most common enzymopathy where patients remain asymptomatic unless exposed to triggering factors. This study aims to assess knowledge levels and awareness among patients with G6PD deficiency.
Methods: A cross-sectional research was performed in Saudi Arabia among individuals affected with G6PD deficiency. The survey includes participants’ demographics, clinical data including comorbidities, hospitalization frequency, blood transfusion, and awareness regarding G6PD deficiency.
Results: A total of 199 participants completed the study questionnaire. Out of 199 participants, 107 (53.8%) were diagnosed with G6PD at 20 years or above. Of the total number, 94 (47.2%) participants knew that patients with G6PD have no symptoms unless exposed to triggering factors. However, around half (45.2%) of the participants are not used to informing healthcare providers about G6PD deficiency during routine clinical visits or medical interventions. Additionally, only 14 (7%) participants knew that applying henna could trigger hemolysis. Generally, only 38 (19.1%) participants had good knowledge. However, the knowledge level was better among participants above the age of 50, those with chronic illness, and those with previous hospitalization or blood transfusion because of G6PD.
Conclusion: Patients’ knowledge regarding G6PD was poor in our study. Public health measures, including large-scale health education programs, are highly needed to improve awareness regarding the condition. Furthermore, a neonatal screening program is crucial for early detection, prevention of crisis, and cost-effectiveness.
Key words: Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, hemolysis, knowledge.
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