Table of Contents
ABSTRACT.. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 8
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 9
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 11
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 11
2.1 Introduction.. 11
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 12
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 14
2.4 Empirical Review.. 17
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 18
Chapter Three.. 19
Research Methodology.. 19
3.1 Research Design.. 20
3.2 Population and Sample.. 20
3.3 Data Collection Methods. 20
3.4 Data Analysis. 21
3.5 Ethical Considerations. 22
3.6 Limitations. 22
3.7 Conclusion.. 22
CHAPTER FOUR.. 23
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 23
4.1 Preamble.. 23
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 24
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 28
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 28
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 37
Discussion of Findings. 38
CHAPTER FIVE.. 40
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 40
5.1 Summary of Findings. 40
5.2 Conclusion.. 41
5.3 Recommendations. 41
REFERENCES.. 42
Research Questionnaire: Awareness and Attitude towards Premarital Genotype Counseling in Nigeria.. 45
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Premarital genotype counseling plays a crucial role in addressing genetic diseases, particularly in regions like Nigeria with a high prevalence of genetic disorders such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia. This counseling service aims to educate couples about their genetic compatibility and the potential risk of passing on hereditary conditions to their offspring. However, the effectiveness of premarital genotype counseling depends greatly on the awareness and attitudes of the population towards it. In Nigeria, where cultural beliefs and societal norms heavily influence healthcare decisions, understanding the perceptions surrounding premarital genotype counseling is essential for improving its uptake and impact (Adedokun et al., 2018).
Despite efforts to promote premarital genotype counseling in Nigeria, there remains a gap in awareness among the population. Many individuals, particularly in rural areas, are unaware of the importance of genetic screening before marriage and the potential consequences of ignoring it. This lack of awareness underscores the need for comprehensive public health campaigns and community outreach programs to disseminate information about the benefits of premarital genotype counseling (Osifo et al., 2020). Addressing this knowledge gap is crucial for increasing the uptake of counseling services and reducing the prevalence of genetic diseases in Nigeria.
Attitudes towards premarital genotype counseling in Nigeria are influenced by various factors, including cultural beliefs, religious views, and perceptions of stigma associated with genetic disorders. While some individuals may embrace the idea of genetic screening as a proactive measure to safeguard the health of future generations, others may view it as intrusive or unnecessary interference in marital decisions. Understanding these diverse attitudes is essential for designing culturally sensitive counseling interventions that resonate with the Nigerian population (Olowokere et al., 2017). By incorporating cultural perspectives into counseling programs, healthcare providers can foster trust and acceptance within communities, ultimately improving the uptake of premarital genotype counseling services
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The issue of awareness and attitudes towards premarital genotype counseling in Nigeria poses a significant public health concern. Despite the availability of counseling services aimed at educating couples about genetic risks and ensuring informed reproductive choices, there exists a notable gap in awareness among the Nigerian population. Studies have shown that a substantial proportion of individuals, particularly in rural areas, lack knowledge about the importance of genetic screening before marriage and the potential consequences of genetic diseases on offspring (Osifo et al., 2020). Furthermore, attitudes towards premarital genotype counseling are influenced by cultural beliefs, religious views, and perceptions of stigma associated with genetic disorders, which can hinder the uptake of counseling services and perpetuate the cycle of genetic diseases within communities (Adedokun et al., 2018).
This lack of awareness and varied attitudes towards premarital genotype counseling contribute to the prevalence of genetic disorders in Nigeria, posing significant challenges to public health initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of these conditions. Without adequate understanding and acceptance of the importance of genetic screening before marriage, individuals may unknowingly enter into unions that increase the risk of passing on hereditary diseases to their offspring. Addressing this problem requires targeted interventions that not only improve awareness of premarital genotype counseling but also address cultural and social barriers to its acceptance, ultimately promoting informed reproductive decision-making and healthier outcomes for future generations (Olowokere et al., 2017).
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Awareness and attitude towards Premarital genotype counseling in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- 1. To assess the level of awareness of premarital genotype counseling among young adults.
- 2. To explore the attitudes of young adults towards premarital genotype counseling.
- To identify sociodemographic factors associated with awareness and attitudes towards premarital genotype counseling.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What percentage of young adults aged 18-35 in Nigeria have heard of premarital genotype counseling?
- Do young adults in Nigeria perceive premarital genotype counseling as a positive or negative practice?
- Is there a difference in awareness and attitudes towards premarital genotype counseling based on factors like age, education level, or geographic location?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant difference in awareness and attitude towards Premarital genotype counseling in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Public health sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Uyo Local Govt Area. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
