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. 2023 Dec 17;15(12):e50664.
doi: 10.7759/cureus.50664. eCollection 2023 Dec.

Assessment of Parents' Knowledge Regarding Pediatric Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency in Saudi Arabia

Sawsan M Al Blewi  1 , Rawiyah A Alessa  2 , Lena D Alzahrani  2 , Omar M Kheder  3 , Rand A Alissa  4 , Lama S Alharbi  5 , Layan F Alsanad  6 , Ahmed S Almuzaini  7
Affiliations

Assessment of Parents' Knowledge Regarding Pediatric Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency in Saudi Arabia

Sawsan M Al Blewi et al. Cureus. .

Abstract

Introduction Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD) is recognized as the most common enzyme disorder globally, impacting over 400 million individuals. The disease is highly prevalent in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to assess parents' awareness of G6PD in Saudi Arabia and identify misconceptions for targeted educational interventions, aiming to enhance awareness and condition management. Methods A structured online questionnaire was used to gather information from July 18th, 2023, to August 1st, 2023. The survey targeted parents of Saudi children who resided in various regions across Saudi Arabia and collected a total of 531 responses. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and probit regression. A significance level of p<0.05 was employed to interpret the results. Results A statistically significant associations were found among parents with Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency-deficient children, including gender-related (odd ratio = 2.91, 99% CI: 1.986-4.301), awareness of the genetic link (odd ratio = 2.49, 99% CI: 1.701-3.639), specific medications (odd ratio =1.890, 99% CI: 1.262-2.853), loss of appetite (odd ratio= 0.629, 95% CI: 0.398-0.990), jaundice (odd ratio = 3.01, 99% CI: 1.877-4.983), increased fluid intake (odd ratio= 1.53, 95% CI: 1.091-2.139), receiving blood transfusions (odd ratio = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.101-2.157), seeking online information (odd ratio = 1.92, 99% CI: 1.250-2.940), and consulting healthcare professionals (odd ratio = 3.24, 99% CI: 2.065-5.107). Conclusion Regional disparities in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency awareness among parents in Saudi Arabia are evident, with the central region demonstrating the highest level of awareness. Understanding glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency risk factors, medication triggers, and clinical symptoms plays a significant role in parental knowledge, emphasizing the need for region-specific education and awareness programs.

Keywords: children; glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (g6pd) deficiency; parents’ awareness; parents’ knowledge; saudi arabia.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Distribution of sources of information on G6PD deficiency
Figure 2
Figure 2. Knowledge of G6PD is based on the independent variable studied.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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