Assessing Knowledge Level, Perception, and practices among policy-makers toward Sickle Cell Disease in Kalangala, Uganda

Abstract

Globally, Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a congenital blood illness that affects millions of people. Uganda has the 5th highest burden in Africa, (Thomson et al., 2023). The health policies that affect the diagnosis and management of SCD are heavily influenced by policymakers. Good knowledge and understanding of SCD amongst Policymakers substantially impact support and resources allotted to fighting the disease with reduction of the prevalence. The study Assesses Knowledge, Perception, and practices among policymakers toward SCD in Kalangala Uganda. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken among policy-makers residing in Kalangala. 194 Google forms sent to participants using convenience sampling and snowball method. A total of 151 Google forms returned with a response rate of 77.83%. The analysis was performed using the Jamovi-2.3.21.0 version. Descriptive, Chi-square tests, statistical analyses were carried out. Female repondents were in the majority as shown by 58.9% of the sample, and the dominant age group was 25-34 years (51.0%). Most of the respondents (95.4%), ever heard of SCD. Some misconceptions were identified, such as, believing that praying could cure sickle cell disease while others believed someone with SCD couldn’t work. This study identifies knowledge gaps about SCD which results in poor health outcomes (Martinez et al., 2020). In a society with a high sickle cell population, there is a need for more common sense regarding how to prevent and manage the risks of SCD. Additional research supports the use of sickle cell disease (SCD) in health education campaigns as part of contextual strategies by policymakers, stakeholders, and government to prevent SCD.