Perception of Premarital Screening and Genetic Counseling among Future Couples

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Nursing specialist in the Neurosurgery Hospital, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University

2 Professor at Maternal and Newborn Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University

3 Assistant Professor at Maternal and Newborn Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University

Abstract

Background: Premarital screening and genetic counseling are important plans and strategies for
preventing genetic disorders and congenital anomalies. The nurse has an integral role in providing genetic
services that include assessing genetic risk, providing information, discussing available testing options and
providing appropriate supportive counseling. Aim: To evaluate the perception of premarital screening and
genetic counseling among future couples. Design: A descriptive cross -sectional design was utilized. Setting:
The present study was conducted in the Maternal and Child Health center in Shebin El-Kom city. Sample: A
convenience sample of three hundred and sixty future couples was used. Instruments: Instrument I: a
structured interviewing questionnaire and Instrument II: attitude of the studied future couples regarding
premarital screening and genetic counseling. Results: The results of the present study revealed that:
Approximately three-quarters of the studied future couples (73.3%) had heard about PMSGC, but
approximately two-thirds of the studied future couples (69.40%) had inadequate knowledge about premarital
screening and genetic counseling. More than one-half of the studied future couples (50.80%) had a positive
perception of premarital screening and genetic counseling. There was a highly statistically significant
difference between the total perception of the studied future couples regarding premarital screening and genetic
counseling and their demographic characteristic. Conclusion: More than one-half of the studied future couples
had a positive perception of premarital screening and genetic counseling. Also, there were highly statistical
differences among the total perception of the studied future couples regarding premarital screening and genetic
counseling and their demographic characteristics. Recommendations: Increasing knowledge of the community
regarding premarital screening and genetic counseling in collaboration with adequate religious support and
government policy is recommended. Studying the effect of education programs regarding premarital screening
and genetic counseling on university students' knowledge, perception, and attitude is essential.

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