KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF GENOTYPE SCREENING AMONG STUDENTS OF KWARA STATE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ILORIN, KWARA STATE

ABSTRACT Introduction: Genotype screening plays a critical role in the early detection and prevention of genetic disorders, particularly sickle cell disease, which remains a major public health concern in Nigeria. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practice of genotype screening among students of Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin, Kwara State, and examined the socio-demographic factors influencing their health behaviors. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed involving 410 students selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including Chi-square tests, were used to analyze the data at a 5% level of significance. Results: The majority of respondents were aged 19–25 years (74.1%), female (58.0%), single (87.1%), and of Yoruba ethnicity (84.4%). Awareness of genotype screening was high (82.2%), with 89.5% demonstrating good knowledge. A significant proportion (88.8%) exhibited a positive attitude toward genotype screening, and 70.5% had undergone screening. Statistically significant associations were found between knowledge and both level of study (p = 0.015) and living status (p = 0.024), while age and marital status showed significant associations with practice (p = 0.055 and p = 0.066 respectively). Key barriers to screening included limited access, lack of interest, and financial constraints. Conclusion: While students displayed high levels of knowledge and positive attitudes toward genotype screening, actual screening practices were comparatively lower. Bridging this gap requires concerted efforts by the government, school authorities, and students to enhance access, awareness, and motivation for routine screening. Keywords: Genotype screening, knowledge, attitude, practice, students, sickle cell disease.