Abstract

BACKGROUND:
Thalassemia is an autosomal recessive single gene disorder characterized by defective production of hemoglobin and excessive destruction of red blood cells in which children are in need of regular blood transfusions. The diagnosis and treatment of the thalassemia major could have an impact on family stability and family dynamics. The only way to prevent the disease and to reduce the morbidity and mortality is by educating the general population.
OBJECTIVE:
This study aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitude & practice of visitors of PHCCs about thalassemia in Iraq.
METHODS:
This is a cross-sectional KAP study was conducted from June   to November 2022, a sample of 1000 participants was collected from different socioeconomic levels from the main & subsidiary primary health care centers from all Iraqi governorates (except Kurdistan region due to logistic obstacles). The PHCCs were chosen by a simple random sampling technique. The questionnaire form was applied through a direct face to face interview that was performed by a team of health workers who have good previous training in this field.
CONCLUSION:
 The study indicates that people's knowledge, attitudes and practices towards thalassemia are poor. There is an urgent need to develop an effective preventive program for thalassemia disease and to integrate it with the education curriculum.
RESULTS:
The majority of the participants have a good modest knowledge about thalassemia, good practice of   the participants about thalassemia.